An earthquake of magnitude 7.6 shook the Caribbean Sea, causing a temporary tsunami advisory for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Although the advisory was later revoked, authorities warned of possible strong currents. The NOAA assessed potential tsunami impacts on nearby coastal areas, particularly Cuba, while no alerts were issued for the U.S. mainland.
A significant earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 7.6 occurred in the Caribbean Sea on Saturday, as reported by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). This seismic event took place approximately 130 miles southwest of Georgetown, Cayman Islands, shortly before 6:30 p.m. local time, prompting authorities to issue a temporary tsunami advisory for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.
Following the earthquake, residents in affected areas were advised to avoid beaches and coastal waters due to potential sea level hazards and flooding risks. However, by 8:15 p.m., the National Tsunami Warning Center (NTWC) lifted the advisory but cautioned that unusual currents could persist. “Be careful near the water and use caution,” the NTWC urged on their social media platform.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) indicated that some coasts of Cuba might experience tsunami waves between 1 to 3 meters above tide levels. Further forecasts suggested similar risks for Honduras and the Cayman Islands, estimating wave heights between 0.3 meters to 1 meter. The Cuban government has since advised citizens to evacuate beachfront areas in light of these warnings.
The NOAA emphasized that actual tsunami wave amplitudes may deviate from forecasts due to localized conditions. Notably, there were no tsunami alerts issued for the U.S. mainland. According to the USGS, the earthquake was attributed to strike-slip faulting occurring in the shallow crust near the intersection of the North American and Caribbean tectonic plates.
Fortunately, there have been no immediate reports of damage resulting from this incident. Officials continue to monitor the conditions and maintain communication with local and regional emergency preparedness agencies to ensure public safety.
In conclusion, a notable earthquake occurred in the Caribbean Sea, leading to a temporary tsunami advisory for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Although the advisory has been lifted, caution near coastal areas remains crucial. The potential for tsunami waves on various Caribbean coasts is being closely monitored, but no damage has been reported thus far.
Original Source: wgme.com
