Two Earthquakes Strike Trinidad and Tobago Without Immediate Damage Reports
Trinidad and Tobago experienced two earthquakes on Tuesday, including a 5.1 magnitude quake, with no immediate reports of damage or injuries. The Seismic Research Centre indicated that the tremors were felt in Port of Spain and surrounding areas, including parts of Venezuela.
On Tuesday, two earthquakes were recorded in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, with one registering a significant magnitude of 5.1. Reports indicate that there were no immediate damages or injuries following these seismic events. The Seismic Research Centre (SRC) of the St Augustine campus of the University of the West Indies reported that the stronger quake occurred at 8:21 a.m. local time, positioned at a latitude of 10.98N and a longitude of 62.42W, and occurred at a depth of 71 kilometers. This earthquake was felt in various locations, including Port of Spain, which is approximately 107 kilometers west-northwest of the epicenter, and Arima, situated 132 kilometers to the west-northwest. Additionally, residents in Carúpano, Venezuela, approximately 96 kilometers to the northeast, also felt the tremor. Earlier, a second tremor with a magnitude of 3.6 occurred at 3:38 a.m. local time, located at a latitude of 10.98N and a longitude of 62.64W, with a depth of 56 kilometers. This tremor was felt primarily in Port of Spain, around 130 kilometers west-northwest, and Porlamar in Venezuela, about 134 kilometers away. These recent seismic activities follow a magnitude 4.0 earthquake that took place on Saturday and was felt in neighboring islands, including Castries in St Lucia, Fort-de-France in Martinique, and Bridgetown in Barbados.
Earthquakes are a natural phenomenon caused by the shifting of tectonic plates within the Earth’s crust. Trinidad and Tobago, located in the Caribbean region, is part of a seismically active area due to its proximity to several tectonic plate boundaries. While the country does experience seismic activity, significant earthquakes are relatively infrequent. The recent tremors highlight the geological stability concerns in the region, and the role of the Seismic Research Centre is pivotal in monitoring and providing crucial data regarding such events. Understanding the impact and frequency of earthquakes in the area is essential for disaster preparedness and public safety.
In summary, Trinidad and Tobago experienced two earthquakes on Tuesday, the more significant being a 5.1 magnitude quake, which raised some concerns due to its felt impact across a wide area, including localities in Venezuela. Despite the tremors, there were no immediate reports of damage or injuries. The region’s geological activity necessitates continuous monitoring to ensure the safety of its inhabitants.
Original Source: jamaica-gleaner.com
