A 7.6 magnitude earthquake shook the Caribbean Sea near the Cayman Islands, prompting tsunami warnings and advisories for coastal residents in several countries, including Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Cuba. Authorities are advising residents to relocate inland and to higher ground in response to potential tsunami threats.
On Saturday, a significant earthquake measuring 7.6 in magnitude struck in the Caribbean Sea, southwest of the Cayman Islands. The U.S. Geological Survey reported that the quake occurred at 6:23 p.m. local time, with an epicenter located approximately 130 miles south-southwest of George Town in the Cayman Islands, at a depth of 10 kilometers. In response, several countries and islands issued advisories for coastal residents to seek higher ground due to tsunami warnings.
The U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center stated that while there is no immediate tsunami threat to the U.S. mainland, a tsunami advisory was issued for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Hazard Management Cayman Islands advised coastal residents to move inland and to higher altitudes, anticipating wave heights of 0.3 to 1 meter. Puerto Rico’s Governor Jenniffer González Colón confirmed her coordination with emergency services following the advisory, though she did not recommend evacuating the coast at that time.
The Dominican Republic took precautionary measures by issuing a tsunami alert and recommending that residents living near the coast relocate to heights exceeding 20 meters and a distance of 2 kilometers inland. Additionally, the Cuban government urged individuals to evacuate beachfront properties. In Honduras, authorities reported no immediate damage but advised residents to avoid beach areas for the time being.
According to a report from the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), tsunami waves between 1 to 3 meters above average tide levels could impact certain Cuban coasts, while heights of 0.3 to 1 meter are anticipated for coasts of Honduras and the Cayman Islands. Accurate assessments of wave amplitudes at coastal levels may vary due to local topographical features and the unpredictability of tsunami forecasts.
The Caribbean region is seismically active and frequently experiences earthquakes. The magnitude of 7.6 is considered significant and can cause concern for potential tsunami activity in coastal regions. This event prompted warnings for various islands and countries, highlighting the importance of preparedness and timely communication in the face of natural disasters. Understanding the geographical context and evolving response measures is crucial for affected populations.
In summary, the 7.6 magnitude earthquake that struck the Caribbean prompted immediate safety advisories and tsunami warnings for several jurisdictions, particularly affecting the Cayman Islands, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic. Authorities emphasized the need for coastal residents to seek higher ground and stay informed. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s assessment of potential tsunami wave heights underscores the ongoing risks following seismic events, necessitating vigilance and readiness in impacted regions.
Original Source: kvnutalk.com
