7.6 Magnitude Earthquake Trembles Caribbean, Coastal Evacuations Recommended
A 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck the Caribbean sea, prompting tsunami advisories in regions including Puerto Rico and the Cayman Islands. Coastal evacuations were advised in several locales, while federal and local governments worked to ensure public safety and preparedness for possible tsunami waves.
On February 8, 2025, a powerful 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck the Caribbean Sea, situated southwest of the Cayman Islands. The earthquake occurred at 6:23 PM local time at a depth of 10 kilometers, approximately 130 miles south-southwest of George Town in the Cayman Islands. In anticipation of potential tsunami effects, various islands and nations advised coastal residents to evacuate inland to safe ground.
The U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center determined that there was no tsunami risk for the U.S. mainland; however, it issued a tsunami advisory for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Hazard Management Cayman Islands instructed residents in coastal areas to seek higher ground, expecting wave heights between 0.3 to 1 meter.
While Governor Jenniffer González Colón of Puerto Rico confirmed her ongoing communication with emergency agencies regarding the advisory, she did not advise coastal evacuation. The Dominican Republic issued a tsunami alert, urging coastal inhabitants to ascend to areas more than 20 meters high and 2 kilometers inland, while also cautioning ships to avoid the sea.
The Cuban government called for the evacuation of beachfront areas, and Honduran officials reported no immediate damage but recommended residents maintain distance from beaches for safety. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration clarified that tsunami waves reaching 1 to 3 meters above tide levels were possible along certain Cuban coasts, with lower projections for Honduras and the Cayman Islands.
Approximately 1 to 3 meters of tsunami waves above normal tide levels were predicted, with a caution that actual coast amplitudes may differ due to forecast uncertainties and local geological features. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and direct safety efforts as needed.
As a concluding statement, authorities across affected regions mobilized quickly to ensure the safety of coastal residents following the earthquake and potential tsunami risks. Emergency advisories remain in place while monitoring for any further developments.
Earthquakes in the Caribbean region, particularly near the Cayman Islands, can pose significant threats due to their potential to trigger tsunamis. The area experiences seismic activity due to tectonic shifts, which necessitates coordinated responses from government and emergency agencies. In events such as this, timely evacuation recommendations for residents near coastlines are crucial to minimize risks associated with rogue waves that could accompany seismic disturbances.
In summary, the February 8 earthquake prompted swift responses by Caribbean authorities to safeguard residents near coastlines from potential tsunami threats. While substantial safety measures and advisories were initiated, the situation remains fluid as monitoring continues.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
