Tsunami Threat Lifts in Caribbean After 7.6-Magnitude Earthquake

On February 8, a 7.6-magnitude earthquake near the Cayman Islands led to tsunami alerts which have since been lifted, with no significant effects reported. Cruise operations have resumed safely, and while the public is advised to remain vigilant for potential aftershocks, no injuries or severe damages have occurred. The National Weather Service has confirmed the threat has passed, assuring regional safety.

The Caribbean region can now rest easy as tsunami advisories have been lifted, following a substantial 7.6-magnitude earthquake near the Cayman Islands on February 8. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Weather Service confirmed that the tsunami threat had dissipated without significant surges, although minimal unusual currents may still affect some areas.

“With the latest modeling and information, the tsunami threat has passed,” stated the National Weather Service. They further noted, “There are no alerts posted for the United States or International Partners.” Contrary to earlier warnings predicting surges of up to 10 feet, the earthquake’s impact seems to have been less severe than anticipated, with no reports of injuries or significant damage.

By early February 9, the US Geological Survey had received upwards of 350 accounts from individuals who felt the tremor. As normalcy returns, cruise ships in the vicinity have resumed their scheduled voyages, including Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Summit, which concluded a longer-than-expected stay in George Town, Grand Cayman.

Additionally, Regent Seven Seas’ Seven Seas Grandeur is currently operating in the same maritime region, headed toward Falmouth, Jamaica. The earthquake, which occurred at 6:23 p.m. local time, prompted alerts for key areas like Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, and several other Caribbean nations.

A complicating factor in the crisis response was that five of six Deep-ocean Assessment and Reporting of Tsunamis (DART) buoys stationed near the Cayman Islands were non-operational. Royal Caribbean’s Meteorologist Craig Setzer indicated that buoy readings suggested no tsunami waves were detected, complicating the situation.

Although tsunami warnings have been lifted, the possibility of aftershocks remains. Dani Coleman, the director of Hazard Management in the Cayman Islands stated, “We have no doubt that there will be aftershocks over the next couple of days.” She urged the public to stay alert and informed through official channels.

While aftershocks, which can occur for days or weeks following a significant quake, pose some concern, it is essential to note that ships at sea remain unaffected by seismic activity that occurs deep within the ocean. The tender port in George Town has no scheduled arrivals on February 9, with the next scheduled visit being Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas on February 10.

In conclusion, while the tsunami threat from the recent earthquake near the Cayman Islands has been lifted, vigilance is still advised concerning potential aftershocks. The cruise industry in the region is returning to normal operations, and no significant damages or injuries have been reported. It is critical for residents and travelers alike to stay informed and prepared for any subsequent developments.

Original Source: www.cruisehive.com