Caribbean Hit by 7.6 Magnitude Earthquake: Coastal Evacuations Advised

A 7.6 magnitude earthquake impacted the Caribbean Sea, prompting evacuations along coastlines. The U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center issued advisories for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, while local authorities urged high-ground relocations in affected areas. The situation remains under close surveillance to ensure public safety against tsunami threats.

A significant 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck the Caribbean Sea, approximately southwest of the Cayman Islands, on Saturday at 6:23 p.m. local time. The earthquake’s epicenter was located 130 miles south-southwest of George Town and occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers, as reported by the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

In response to the quake, various islands and nations advised residents near coastlines to evacuate inland due to potential tsunami threats. The U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center indicated that while there was no tsunami alert for the U.S. mainland, advisories were issued for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Local authorities in the Cayman Islands urged coastal inhabitants to move to higher ground, predicting wave heights between 0.3 to 1 meter. Puerto Rico’s Governor Jenniffer González Colón stated she is coordinating with emergency agencies related to the tsunami advisory but has not mandated evacuation from coastal areas. In contrast, the Dominican Republic recommended residents relocate to higher altitudes, advising movements to areas exceeding 20 meters in elevation and at least 2 kilometers inland.

Cuban authorities also requested residents to abandon beachfront areas due to safety concerns. Honduran officials reported no immediate damage assessments but cautioned the population to avoid beach areas in the coming hours. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration noted the possibility of tsunami waves reaching 1 to 3 meters in height along specific Cuban shores, alongside waves of between 0.3 and 1 meter affecting coastal regions of Honduras and the Cayman Islands.

The NOAA advised that actual wave heights may differ from forecasted estimates due to local conditions and uncertainties inherent in tsunami predictions. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant as the situation evolves.

In conclusion, the 7.6 magnitude earthquake in the Caribbean prompted immediate safety precautions across affected regions. Coastal residents were advised to evacuate inland, particularly in the Cayman Islands, Dominican Republic, and Cuba. While tsunami advisories were issued, the U.S. mainland remained unaffected. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, prioritizing public safety against potential tsunami impacts.

Original Source: abc7.com