7.6 Magnitude Earthquake Strike Prompts Tsunami Warnings in the Caribbean

A 7.6 magnitude earthquake hit the Caribbean on Saturday, prompting tsunami warnings in Puerto Rico, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic. Initial advisories were later rescinded, with evacuations taking place in several coastal areas. Local governments are monitoring the effects and possible aftershocks as the situation develops.

A 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck the Caribbean Sea, south-southwest of the Cayman Islands, at 6:23 p.m. local time on Saturday, as recorded by the U.S. Geological Survey. The earthquake’s epicenter was located approximately 130 miles (209 km) from George Town, at a depth of 10 kilometers.

Initially, the U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center issued a tsunami advisory for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands; however, this advisory was later cancelled, indicating no threat to the U.S. mainland. In Puerto Rico’s northwest region, alarms prompted mass evacuations from coastal areas, resulting in significant traffic congestion.

The Hazard Management department in the Cayman Islands recommended that residents move inland to higher ground as wave heights of 0.3 to 1 meter were anticipated. In Cuba, governmental agencies advised individuals to evacuate beachfront areas, while warnings in the Dominican Republic were adjusted to encourage movement to locations exceeding 20 meters in height, 2 km away from the coast, although this warning was ultimately rescinded.

The Bahamas Department of Meteorology also issued a tsunami advisory, urging residents to remain vigilant; however, authorities in Honduras reported no immediate damages but advised against visits to beaches. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) indicated that tsunami wave heights could reach 1 to 3 meters above tide levels along certain coasts of Cuba, while actual heights may vary based on local conditions.

Local governments in the impacted regions are coordinating with emergency agencies to monitor the situation, preparing for possible aftershocks as the situation develops.

The earthquake’s seismic activity in the Caribbean region underscores the geological volatility of this area, which is prone to such natural disasters. Earthquakes of this magnitude can have severe implications, including potential tsunamis, prompting immediate responses from local emergency management agencies. The responses involve evacuating coastal populations and monitoring ensuing threats, particularly regarding tsunami advisories, which fluctuate based on evolving assessments by authorities such as the NOAA.

In conclusion, the 7.6 magnitude earthquake that struck the Caribbean prompted widespread safety precautions across several islands, including the issuance and subsequent cancellation of tsunami warnings. Evacuations in Puerto Rico and advisories in surrounding nations highlight the importance of preparedness in the face of seismic events. Continued vigilance and coordinated responses from local governments are crucial as the situation evolves and aftershocks remain a possibility.

Original Source: tribune.com.pk