Tsunami Warning Issued Following 7.5 Magnitude Earthquake in the Caribbean
A 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck the Caribbean near Honduras, prompting tsunami warnings for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Authorities have urged residents to evacuate coastal areas due to potential hazards from sea fluctuations. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 6.21 miles, and hazardous conditions are expected to begin by 8:48 PM EST.
On Saturday, a powerful earthquake registering 7.5 on the Richter scale struck the Caribbean region, specifically near Honduras, as reported by the German Research Center for Geosciences. Occurring at 6:23 PM EST, the tremor raised alarms, leading the United States Geological Survey to initiate tsunami alerts for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. The earthquake was initially recorded at a magnitude of 6.89 before being adjusted to 7.5 and was located at a depth of 6.21 miles.
Following the quake, the U.S. Tsunami Warning System issued advisories indicating that fluctuations in sea levels and strong currents pose a risk along coastal areas, beaches, and harbors. Residents of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands are strongly urged to evacuate from ocean proximity, avoiding harbors, marinas, and bays, to enhance their safety. The earliest hazardous conditions are projected to begin around 8:48 PM on Saturday, according to the U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center.
The Caribbean is an area susceptible to seismic activity due to its location along tectonic plate boundaries. Earthquakes in this region can trigger tsunamis, which are often hazardous to coastal communities. The recent incident highlights the need for effective warning systems and prompt public response to mitigate risks following seismic events.
In conclusion, the recent 7.5 magnitude earthquake in the Caribbean has prompted immediate tsunami warnings for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Authorities have advised local residents to evacuate coastal areas to ensure their safety as the threat of dangerous sea conditions persists. Timely and coordinated responses are crucial to protecting the affected populations from potential tsunami impacts.
Original Source: www.dailymail.co.uk
