7.6 Magnitude Earthquake Rocks the Caribbean, Prompting Coastal Evacuations

A magnitude-7.6 earthquake shook the Caribbean Sea near the Cayman Islands, prompting evacuations and tsunami advisories for some regions. Tsunami alerts were eventually lifted, and authorities evaluated the situation. Coastal residents were alerted to potential wave heights, but no significant damage was reported in surrounding areas.

A magnitude-7.6 earthquake struck the Caribbean Sea south of the Cayman Islands on Saturday, prompting local authorities to urge residents near coastlines to evacuate inland. The quake occurred at 6:23 p.m. local time, with an epicenter located 130 miles south-southwest of George Town and a depth of 10 kilometers. Subsequent tsunami alerts for various islands were later rescinded.

Following the earthquake, the U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center initially issued a tsunami advisory for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, which was ultimately lifted. The Hazard Management Cayman Islands advised coastal residents to relocate to higher ground as wave heights were projected between 0.3 to 1 meter. A government update confirmed the situation was cleared.

Puerto Rico’s Governor Jenniffer González Colón stated that she remained in communication with emergency agencies, although she did not endorse evacuating coastal areas entirely. The alarm sounded in Puerto Rico’s northwest region prompted local residents to flee, leading to extensive traffic congestion due to panic.

The Dominican Republic also issued a tsunami alert and recommended residents move to elevations exceeding 20 meters and at least 2 kilometers inland, which was subsequently lifted. Authorities in Honduras reported no immediate damage but advised residents to refrain from visiting beaches. Meanwhile, Cuba called upon citizens to vacate beachfront zones as precautionary measures were taken for tsunami wave possibilities.

The Caribbean region is prone to seismic activity due to the presence of tectonic plate boundaries. Earthquakes of significant magnitude can generate tsunamis, affecting coastal areas and prompting evacuations. This incident, registering 7.6 in magnitude, underscores the need for preparedness and responsiveness in disaster management as authorities assess risks and relay timely information to residents across multiple islands.

In summary, the 7.6-magnitude earthquake in the Caribbean prompted widespread precautionary measures, including evacuations and tsunami alerts, which were eventually lifted. The incident highlights the ongoing seismic risks faced by island nations and the importance of efficient emergency management systems in mitigating potential disasters and ensuring the safety of residents.

Original Source: www.wifr.com