7.6 Magnitude Earthquake in the Caribbean Triggers Evacuations and Alerts

On Saturday, a 7.6 magnitude earthquake hit the Caribbean Sea, urging some islands to evacuate coastal areas. The quake occurred off the Cayman Islands’ coast, prompting temporary tsunami advisories for regions such as Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, which were later lifted. No significant damage has been reported, and most alerts have been canceled.

A powerful 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck the Caribbean Sea, located south of the Cayman Islands, as reported by the U.S. Geological Survey. The quake occurred on Saturday at 6:23 PM local time, with its epicenter situated approximately 130 miles (209 kilometers) south-southwest of George Town, Cayman Islands, and at a depth of 10 kilometers. In response, various islands and countries warned residents along the coast to evacuate inland, but most tsunami alerts were subsequently rescinded.

The U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center confirmed no tsunami threat to the U.S. mainland; however, an advisory was temporarily issued for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This advisory was later lifted. Hazard Management Cayman Islands recommended that coastal residents seek higher ground due to expected wave heights of 0.3 to 1 meter, after which the Cayman Islands government announced an “all clear” via social media.

Governor Jenniffer González Colón of Puerto Rico stated that she is coordinating with emergency agencies following the tsunami advisory but did not endorse evacuation from the coast. Local media reported that the activation of alarms in Puerto Rico’s northwest region resulted in the evacuation of coastal populations, leading to significant traffic congestion.

In addition, the Dominican Republic issued a tsunami alert, advising coastal residents to seek shelter in elevations exceeding 20 meters and to move at least 2 kilometers inland, although this alert was later canceled. Honduran authorities reported no immediate damages but encouraged residents to avoid coastal areas. The Cuban government also requested individuals to leave beachfront locations, while NOAA indicated that “tsunami waves reaching 1 to 3 meters above the tide level are possible along some coasts of Cuba.”

The recent 7.6 magnitude earthquake prompted various Caribbean nations to initiate tsunami advisories, compelling some coastal residents to evacuate. While many alerts were quickly rescinded, authorities maintained precautions due to potential tsunami activity. Overall, the situation remains stable, with no significant damages reported, indicating effective emergency management responses across the region.

Original Source: www.wtap.com