A magnitude-7.6 earthquake struck the Caribbean near the Cayman Islands, prompting tsunami advisories for Puerto Rico and other coastal areas. Residents have been advised to move inland and to higher ground in response to the tsunami threat, while officials monitor the situation closely. There were no immediate reports of damage, although precautions are being observed across affected areas.
On Saturday, a substantial magnitude-7.6 earthquake jolted the Caribbean Sea, southwest of the Cayman Islands, as reported by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Occurring at 6:23 p.m. local time with a depth of 10 kilometers, its epicenter was situated 130 miles south-southwest of George Town.
The U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center issued a tsunami advisory specifically for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, although no tsunami alert was prompted for the mainland. In response, Hazard Management Cayman Islands recommended coastal residents move to higher ground.
Puerto Rico Governor Jenniffer González Colón confirmed she was coordinating with emergency agencies regarding the advisory but did not suggest evacuations from coastal areas. The Dominican government advised coastal residents to seek higher elevations exceeding 20 meters, while Cuba encouraged individuals to vacate beachfront locations.
Honduran officials reported no immediate damages but cautioned residents to avoid beaches for several hours. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) subsequently indicated potential tsunami waves that could reach 1 to 3 meters above normal tide levels along some Cuban coasts.
Earthquakes in the Caribbean are significant geological events due to the tectonic activity in the region. The Cayman Islands, located near the intersection of several tectonic plates, often experience seismic activities. Tsunami advisories are critical to public safety, prompting various governments to take necessary precautionary measures during such events to ensure the well-being of coastal populations.
In summary, the magnitude-7.6 earthquake off the Cayman Islands prompted tsunami advisories and precautionary evacuations across several Caribbean countries. While the mainland U.S. remained unaffected, local authorities prioritized safety, urging citizens to seek higher ground and remain alert. Continuous monitoring by governmental agencies is essential in managing potential tsunami threats following seismic activity.
Original Source: kvnutalk.com
