7.6 Magnitude Earthquake in Caribbean Sea Triggers Tsunami Advisory

A 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck the Caribbean Sea, prompting a temporary tsunami advisory for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. The advisory was later lifted, but caution was urged due to residual strong currents. Potential tsunami waves were forecasted for Cuba, leading to evacuation recommendations from local authorities.

A significant earthquake measuring 7.6 on the Richter scale struck the Caribbean Sea on Saturday evening, as reported by the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The seismic event took place approximately 130 miles southwest of Georgetown, Cayman Islands, shortly before 6:30 PM. Following the occurrence, officials issued a temporary tsunami advisory for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, recommending that residents remain away from coastlines due to possible sea level hazards and flooding risks.

The National Tsunami Warning Center (NTWC) indicated that the tsunami advisory for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands was lifted around 8:15 PM. Despite the cancellation of alerts, the NTWC cautioned the public to remain vigilant around water, with reports of continuing strong and unusual currents. Furthermore, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) warned of potential tsunami waves in Cuba, projecting heights between 1 to 3 meters above the tide.

The Cuban government advised residents to evacuate beachfront areas and exercise caution. NOAA officials noted that actual tsunami amplitudes could differ from forecasts owing to various uncertainties and local characteristics. Thankfully, no tsunami alert was issued for the U.S. mainland. According to the USGS, the earthquake resulted from strike-slip faulting near the boundary between the North American and Caribbean tectonic plates, with no immediate damage reported following the event.

In conclusion, a notable earthquake occurred in the Caribbean Sea, triggering a temporary tsunami advisory for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, which was later canceled. Potential tsunami waves remain a concern for Cuba, advising caution for beachfront residents. The earthquake, caused by geological activity between tectonic plates, fortunately resulted in no reported damage.

Original Source: kpic.com