A 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck southwest of the Cayman Islands, leading to tsunami advisories across multiple Caribbean nations. Coastal evacuations were recommended in response, including for residents in Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Cuba. U.S. authorities monitored potential wave heights while emphasizing safety precautions in affected areas.
On Saturday, a significant 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck the Caribbean Sea, particularly southwest of the Cayman Islands, as reported by the U.S. Geological Survey. The quake occurred at 6:23 p.m. local time, located approximately 130 miles (209 kilometers) south-southwest of George Town, with a depth of 10 kilometers. In light of potential tsunami risks, several islands and coastal regions recommended residents move inland for safety.
The U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center did not issue a tsunami alert for the U.S. mainland but did place a tsunami advisory for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Hazard Management Cayman Islands urged individuals near the coast to evacuate to higher ground, anticipating wave heights of 0.3 to 1 meter. Governor Jenniffer González Colón of Puerto Rico communicated with emergency teams but did not advise coastal evacuations at that time.
The Dominican Republic also declared a tsunami alert, instructing coastal residents to relocate to elevations exceeding 20 meters and to move 2 kilometers inland. Ships were advised to stay clear of the ocean for several hours. Meanwhile, the Cuban government requested the evacuation of individuals from beachfront areas, while reports from Honduras indicated no immediate damage but urged residents to avoid beaches temporarily.
Subsequently, the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration warned of potential tsunami waves ranging from 1 to 3 meters above tide levels along specific Cuban coasts, while forecasting waves between 0.3 and 1 meter for certain coastlines in Honduras and the Cayman Islands. The NOAA cautioned that actual wave heights may differ due to various uncertainties and local coastal features.
Earthquakes are common in the Caribbean, particularly due to tectonic activity along the region’s fault lines. A sudden disruption, such as this 7.6 magnitude quake, raises alarms for tsunami potential, prompting coastal evacuations and safety measures. The response from local governments reflects proactive approaches to minimize risks and potential casualties in populated coastal areas.
In summary, the recent 7.6 magnitude earthquake in the Caribbean southwest of the Cayman Islands prompted advisories and evacuations in several surrounding regions, including Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Cuba. While the U.S. mainland remained unaffected, local authorities took necessary precautions to ensure public safety as potential tsunami threats emerged. Monitoring of wave heights continues, with predictions indicating varying impacts across different coasts.
Original Source: kvnutalk.com
