A 7.6-magnitude earthquake rocked the Caribbean Sea earlier today, with officials issuing tsunami alerts impacting several nations, including Honduras, Colombia, and the Cayman Islands.
Major 7.6 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Caribbean, Tsunami Alerts Issued
Major 7.6 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Caribbean, Tsunami Alerts Issued
A powerful quake has prompted tsunami warnings across parts of Central America and the Caribbean.
The epicenter of the earthquake was located approximately 20 miles north of Honduras and 130 miles south-west of the Cayman Islands, as confirmed by the United States Geological Survey (USGS). In response, tsunami alerts were activated for various coastal regions including Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Cuba.
Initially, the National Weather Service disseminated a tsunami advisory for Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands, which was subsequently lifted roughly 45 minutes post-issuance. Cautionary reminders were shared regarding the possibility of unusual currents, urging locals to stay vigilant near coastal waters.
Despite the cancellation of some alerts, the government of the Cayman Islands has warned residents about an ongoing tsunami threat, advising those in coastal areas to seek higher ground.
The USGS noted that such significant seismic events at this tectonic boundary are not surprising; a similar 7.5-magnitude quake struck the region in 2018, resulting in minor damage and a small tsunami. Fortunately, the isolated nature of the earthquake zones has mitigated the risk of extensive destruction from shaking.
The US National Tsunami Warning Centre reported that no alerts have been issued for the mainland United States. Residents are encouraged to keep abreast of local emergency management updates for the most current safety information.
Initially, the National Weather Service disseminated a tsunami advisory for Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands, which was subsequently lifted roughly 45 minutes post-issuance. Cautionary reminders were shared regarding the possibility of unusual currents, urging locals to stay vigilant near coastal waters.
Despite the cancellation of some alerts, the government of the Cayman Islands has warned residents about an ongoing tsunami threat, advising those in coastal areas to seek higher ground.
The USGS noted that such significant seismic events at this tectonic boundary are not surprising; a similar 7.5-magnitude quake struck the region in 2018, resulting in minor damage and a small tsunami. Fortunately, the isolated nature of the earthquake zones has mitigated the risk of extensive destruction from shaking.
The US National Tsunami Warning Centre reported that no alerts have been issued for the mainland United States. Residents are encouraged to keep abreast of local emergency management updates for the most current safety information.
