Magnitude-7.6 Earthquake in the Caribbean Triggers Evacuation Alerts

A 7.6 magnitude earthquake shook the Caribbean Sea near the Cayman Islands, prompting temporary tsunami advisories in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, later lifted. Coastal populations were advised to evacuate, but the alerts were gradually cancelled as assessments indicated no immediate threat. Authorities confirmed no significant damages or injuries across the affected areas.

On Saturday, a magnitude-7.6 earthquake struck the Caribbean Sea near the Cayman Islands, reported by the U.S. Geological Survey. The earthquake occurred at 6:23 PM local time at a depth of 10 kilometers, its epicenter located 130 miles south-southwest of George Town. Although coastal residents were initially urged to evacuate, tsunami alerts were later lifted for most regions.

The U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center did not issue a tsunami alert for the U.S. mainland but provided a tsunami advisory for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, which was subsequently cancelled. Hazard Management in the Cayman Islands recommended residents move to higher ground due to anticipated wave heights of 0.3 to 1 meter, later declaring an “all clear” on social media.

In Puerto Rico, Governor Jenniffer González Colón confirmed communications with emergency services following the advisory, although she did not advise evacuations from the coast. The alarm sounded in the northwest region, prompting residents to leave coastal areas, leading to significant traffic congestion. The Dominican Republic issued, then cancelled, a tsunami alert recommending elevated locations for coastal residents.

Officials in Honduras reported no immediate damage but advised residents to avoid beach areas. The Cuban government also urged the population to vacate beachfront zones, while the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration cautioned that tsunami waves could reach 1 to 3 meters above normal tide levels along parts of Cuba.

The Caribbean region is susceptible to seismic activity due to the presence of several tectonic plates. Earthquakes of considerable magnitude can trigger tsunamis, causing significant threats to coastal residents. Therefore, when a large earthquake occurs, swift response and communication from authorities are crucial to ensure the safety of communities and mitigate potential harm from tidal waves.

The magnitude-7.6 earthquake in the Caribbean prompted widespread alerts and evacuations along coastlines in several territories. While initial warnings led to movement away from dangerous areas, subsequent assessments released by authorities confirmed no imminent tsunami threat, allowing residents to return. This incident highlights the importance of timely communication and preparedness in regions prone to seismic events.

Original Source: www.wsaz.com