Magnitude 7.6 Earthquake in Caribbean Sea Triggers Tsunami Advisory

A significant earthquake with a magnitude of 7.6 occurred in the Caribbean Sea, prompting a temporary tsunami advisory for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. The advisory was lifted later, but caution continued due to possible strong currents. Cuba also faced warnings of tsunami waves, leading to evacuations along its coast.

On Saturday evening, a significant earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 7.6 struck the Caribbean Sea, approximately 130 miles southwest of Georgetown, Cayman Islands. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported the event occurring shortly before 6:30 p.m., prompting authorities to issue a temporary tsunami advisory for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Residents were advised to avoid beaches and coastal areas due to potential sea level hazards and flooding risk.

By 8:15 p.m., the U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center (NTWC) announced the cancellation of the tsunami advisory. However, they cautioned that strong and unusual currents might persist, advising the public to exercise caution near water bodies. Additionally, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) indicated the possibility of tsunami waves measuring between 1 to 3 meters along parts of Cuba’s coastline.

The Cuban government advised residents to evacuate beachfront locations while NOAA highlighted that actual wave amplitudes may differ due to local conditions. No tsunami alerts were issued for the U.S. mainland. According to the USGS, the earthquake was attributable to strike-slip faulting near the boundary between the North America and Caribbean tectonic plates, with rupture occurring on a steeply dipping structure with west-northwest or west-southwest strike.

The Caribbean region experiences seismic activity due to its location near tectonic plate boundaries, specifically the North American and Caribbean plates. Earthquakes in this area can lead to significant geological events, including tsunamis. The U.S. Geological Survey monitors such occurrences and provides timely information to mitigate risks associated with earthquakes and potential tsunamis, especially in vulnerable coastal communities.

In summary, the notable earthquake in the Caribbean Sea resulted in a temporary tsunami advisory for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, which was subsequently lifted. Authorities urged caution due to the possibility of unusual ocean currents and advised residents in Cuba to evacuate beachfront areas. The event underscores the seismic risks prevalent in the region and the importance of preparedness.

Original Source: keprtv.com