A 7.6-magnitude earthquake has struck the Caribbean, triggering tsunami warnings for several countries including Cuba and Puerto Rico. The USGS reports that this area frequently experiences large quakes, though the remote epicenter helps reduce potential damage. Residents have been warned of dangerous sea conditions.
A significant earthquake registering 7.6 on the Richter scale has recently struck the Caribbean Sea, prompting tsunami alerts in several regions, as reported by the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The earthquake’s epicenter was identified approximately 20 miles (32.1 km) north of Honduras and 130 miles (209.2 km) southwest of the Cayman Islands. In response to this event, multiple countries, including Colombia, the Cayman Islands, Costa Rica, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Cuba, have received tsunami alerts.
The National Weather Service has cautioned residents in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands about potential hazards, stating there could be “strong currents and waves dangerous to those in or very near water.” The USGS provided reassurance by acknowledging that large earthquakes in this specific plate boundary location are relatively common. An earlier seismic event, a 7.5-magnitude quake in 2018, resulted in minor damage and a small tsunami in the region.
This earthquake signifies the continuing geological activity in the Caribbean, particularly along the tectonic plate boundaries. Historically, earthquakes of significant magnitude are not rare in this region, given its geological composition. The occurrence of a previous earthquake in 2018 illustrates the danger posed by seismic activities, which have the potential to generate tsunamis, emphasizing the need for consistent monitoring and preparedness in coastal areas.
In summary, the recent 7.6-magnitude earthquake in the Caribbean has prompted widespread tsunami alerts, particularly affecting countries such as Colombia, Cuba, and Puerto Rico. The USGS noted that while large earthquakes are frequent in this zone, the remote locations often limit the extent of damage. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure public safety.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
