7.6 Magnitude Earthquake in Caribbean Prompts Tsunami Precautions
A 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck the Caribbean Sea near the Cayman Islands on Saturday. Coastal residents in several island nations were urged to evacuate inland due to potential tsunami threats. Advisory measures were taken by the U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center and local governments to ensure safety amidst the earthquake’s aftermath.
On Saturday, a 7.6 magnitude earthquake occurred in the Caribbean Sea near the Cayman Islands, as reported by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The seismic event happened at 6:23 p.m. local time, with an epicenter located 130 miles (209 kilometers) south-southwest of George Town and at a depth of 10 kilometers. As a precaution, various island nations urged coastal residents to move inland due to potential tsunami threats.
The U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center did not issue a tsunami alert for the U.S. mainland but issued advisories for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Hazard Management Cayman Islands advised people in coastal areas to seek higher ground, predicting wave heights between 0.3 to 1 meter. In Puerto Rico, Governor Jenniffer González Colón stated that she is in contact with emergency agencies but refrained from recommending evacuation at this stage.
Additionally, the Dominican Republic’s government issued a tsunami alert and advised residents to move to elevated areas at least 20 meters above sea level and 2 kilometers inland. The authorities also cautioned ships to remain clear of coastal waters for several hours following the quake. Similarly, the Cuban government recommended that individuals vacate beachfront zones.
Although Honduran officials reported no immediate damage, they advised locals to stay away from beaches for the time being. Subsequently, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) warned of possible tsunami waves ranging from 1 to 3 meters in height along Cuba’s coasts and suggested waves of 0.3 to 1 meter could affect coasts in Honduras and the Cayman Islands. The NOAA added that actual wave heights could vary based on local conditions and forecast uncertainties.
In summary, a significant 7.6 magnitude earthquake impacted the Caribbean Sea, prompting urgent evacuation advisories along the coastlines of several islands. Precautionary measures have been initiated by governments in the region due to potential tsunami activity, despite no immediate threat to the U.S. mainland. Ongoing assessments and communications with emergency agencies are crucial in ensuring public safety in the affected areas.
Original Source: abc7.com
