A 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck the Caribbean Sea, leading to tsunami advisories in several locations. Initial alerts prompted evacuations in coastal areas of the Cayman Islands, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic, but most were later canceled. Fortunately, there are no immediate reports of damage, and local authorities are managing the aftermath effectively.
A significant 7.6 magnitude earthquake occurred in the Caribbean Sea on Saturday, affecting several islands, including the Cayman Islands. The earthquake took place at 6:23 p.m. local time, with an epicenter located 130 miles south-southwest of George Town and at a depth of 10 kilometers. Although tsunami alerts were initially issued, these were later rescinded in most affected areas.
In response to the quake, Hazard Management Cayman Islands advised coastal residents to seek higher ground due to anticipated wave heights between 0.3 and 1 meter. Fortunately, the Cayman Islands government later confirmed an “all clear” on their social media channels. In Puerto Rico, Governor Jenniffer González Colón was in contact with emergency services, but she did not advise evacuation from coastal areas despite initial reports of heavy traffic caused by alarm sirens.
The Dominican Republic also issued a tsunami alert, instructing coastal residents to move to areas above 20 meters in altitude, before subsequently canceling the alert. Meanwhile, Honduras disclosed no immediate damage reports but urged its citizens to avoid beaches. Additionally, the Cuban government recommended residents vacate beachfront zones, while tsunami waves reaching 1 to 3 meters were forecasted along Cuba’s coasts by the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
In summary, the 7.6 magnitude earthquake in the Caribbean prompted several islands, including the Cayman Islands and Puerto Rico, to issue tsunami advisories and advisories for residents to move inland. However, most tsunami warnings were lifted shortly thereafter, with little reported damage. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.
Original Source: www.wtap.com