Magnitude-7.6 Earthquake in Caribbean Prompts Tsunami Advisories
A 7.6 magnitude earthquake occurred in the Caribbean Sea southwest of the Cayman Islands, prompting tsunami advisories for Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Dominican Republic. Residents along coastlines were urged to evacuate inland to safer areas. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration provided estimates of possible wave heights, raising awareness of potential tsunami threats in the region.
On Saturday, a magnitude-7.6 earthquake struck the Caribbean Sea, approximately 130 miles south-southwest of George Town, Cayman Islands, at 6:23 p.m. local time. The quake’s depth was recorded at 10 kilometers, leading authorities to issue precautionary advisories for potential tsunami waves. Residents near coastlines were urged to move inland and to higher ground, particularly in the Cayman Islands and Puerto Rico, where tsunami advisory measures were enacted.
The U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center confirmed that there was no tsunami warning for the U.S. mainland. However, an advisory was issued for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Cayman Islands’ Hazard Management authorities recommended that residents in coastal areas evacuate to safer locations, anticipating wave heights of 0.3 to 1 meter.
In response to the earthquake, Puerto Rico’s Governor Jenniffer González Colón stated she was in contact with emergency agencies but did not advise evacuations from the coastline. Meanwhile, the Dominican Republic issued a tsunami alert urging coastal residents to relocate to higher altitudes beyond 20 meters and 2 kilometers inland. Cuban authorities advised individuals to vacate beachfront areas.
Despite the seismic activity, Honduran officials reported no immediate damage but cautioned residents to stay inland from beaches in the ensuing hours. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration projected tsunami waves of 1 to 3 meters above tide levels might impact some Cuban coasts, while waves between 0.3 and 1 meter are possible along the coastlines of Honduras and Cayman Islands.
This article addresses a significant seismic event that occurred in the Caribbean, highlighting the earthquake’s magnitude and its geographical impact. It emphasizes the regions affected and the subsequent safety measures recommended by government authorities and disaster management agencies. The document illustrates the necessary precautions taken across various Caribbean nations to ensure public safety, especially in light of potential tsunami threats following such seismic incidents.
In summary, a magnitude-7.6 earthquake shook the Caribbean Sea near the Cayman Islands, prompting various governments to issue tsunami advisories and evacuation recommendations. This incident underlines the importance of preparedness and rapid response in the face of natural disasters, aiming to safeguard the population from potential tsunami threats. Authorities remain vigilant as they monitor the aftermath and assess any further risks.
Original Source: kvnutalk.com
