Magnitude-7.6 Earthquake Triggers Tsunami Advisories in the Caribbean
On Saturday, a magnitude-7.6 earthquake struck the Caribbean Sea, prompting tsunami advisories for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Coastal residents were urged to seek higher ground. The Dominican Republic and Cuba also advised residents to evacuate coastal areas. The NOAA projected potential tsunami wave heights varying by location.
A magnitude-7.6 earthquake occurred in the Caribbean Sea, southwest of the Cayman Islands on Saturday, as reported by the U.S. Geological Survey. The earthquake struck at 6:23 p.m. local time, with an epicenter located approximately 130 miles south-southwest of George Town and at a depth of 10 kilometers. In light of the quake, various islands and nations have recommended coastal residents to move inland due to potential tsunami hazards.
The U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center indicated that currently, there is no tsunami alert for the U.S. mainland. However, a tsunami advisory has been issued for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Hazard Management Cayman Islands has recommended that residents near the coastline relocate to higher ground, anticipating wave heights of between 0.3 to 1 meter.
In a statement from Puerto Rico’s Governor Jenniffer González Colón, she confirmed communication with emergency agencies following the tsunami advisory, but did not endorse evacuating coastal areas. The Dominican Republic has issued a tsunami alert advising residents along the coast to move to high ground exceeding 20 meters in altitude and at least 2 kilometers inland. Additionally, the government urged nearby vessels to remain clear of the water temporarily.
Cuba has also instructed its citizens to vacate beachfront locations. While the Honduran authorities reported no immediate damage, they advised residents to stay away from beaches for the next few hours. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration later stated that tsunami waves could reach between 1 and 3 meters above the tide along some parts of Cuba, with similar wave forecasts for Honduras and the Cayman Islands.
The NOAA emphasized that actual wave heights at the coast could differ from projections due to various uncertainties, including local geographical features.
The Caribbean region is prone to seismic activity due to its position on tectonic plates, which can lead to potentially devastating earthquakes. The U.S. Geological Survey plays a crucial role in monitoring these seismic events and providing early warnings to prevent loss of life and property. When a significant earthquake occurs, tsunami advisories are frequently issued, urging coastal populations to take precautionary measures.
In summary, the magnitude-7.6 earthquake in the Caribbean Sea prompted advisories and evacuations across multiple countries, particularly in Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Cuba. Though no tsunami threat was issued for the U.S. mainland, varying advisory levels indicate the need for vigilance along coastal areas. The event underscores the importance of preparedness in regions vulnerable to seismic and tsunami risks.
Original Source: kvnutalk.com
