A 2.8 magnitude earthquake struck near Area 51, Nevada, following a larger tremor that triggered tsunami warnings in the Caribbean. Authorities managed the situation by issuing evacuations where necessary, but subsequent alerts were rescinded as conditions improved.
A 2.8 magnitude earthquake struck east of Amargosa Valley, near the classified Area 51 military base in Nevada, approximately 50 miles from the facility. This quake followed a significant tremor that triggered tsunami alerts in the Caribbean region, leading to precautions in various coastal areas. The U.S. Geological Survey documented the quake, noting its relatively low magnitude, indicating only minor potential for structural damage.
Nevada is known for its seismic activity, with the frequency of minor tremors occurring annually being notably high. According to Michigan Technological University, earthquakes in the 2.5 to 5.4 magnitude range are often felt but generally cause only minor damage. This recent event was overshadowed by a magnitude 7.6 earthquake in the Caribbean, which raised initial concerns and prompted precautionary evacuations.
The USGS indicated that the quake occurred at 6:23 PM local time from a depth of 10 kilometers, about 130 miles south-southwest of George Town in the Cayman Islands. Even though there was no tsunami alert for the U.S. mainland, a brief advisory was in effect for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, subsequently rescinded. This event elicited concern that led coastal residents in various regions to seek higher ground due to anticipated wave heights of 0.3 to one meter.
Local officials in the Cayman Islands reported rescinding the initial advisories and declared all-clear notifications. In Puerto Rico, Governor Jenniffer González Colón was in contact with emergency agencies, although she did not recommend coastal evacuations. Furthermore, the Dominican Republic issued a tsunami alert requiring coastal evacuation but withdrew this advisory shortly thereafter.
Honduran authorities reported no immediate damage, advising citizens to stay away from beaches. The Cuban government urged evacuations along coastal areas following warnings of potential tsunami waves reaching heights of one to three meters along its coasts.
In summary, a minor earthquake near Area 51 in Nevada coincided with significant seismic activity in the Caribbean. While local and regional authorities managed precautionary measures effectively, the initial tsunami warnings sparked responses across multiple locations, including evacuations and advisories. Ultimately, these alerts were promptly rescinded as conditions stabilized, highlighting the complexities and exigencies associated with seismic events.
Original Source: www.the-express.com
