7.6-Magnitude Earthquake Hits the Caribbean, but Tsunami Alerts Are Lifted

Last Saturday (8), a 7.6-magnitude earthquake was recorded in the Caribbean Sea, south of the Cayman Islands, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The tremor prompted several islands and countries in the region to advise coastal populations to move to safer areas. However, the tsunami warnings initially issued were later canceled.

The earthquake occurred at 6:23 PM local time and had a depth of 10 kilometers. The epicenter was located approximately 209 kilometers south of George Town in the Cayman Islands. The US National Tsunami Warning Center stated that although there was no risk for the U.S. mainland, a tsunami advisory was issued for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands but was soon revoked.

Authorities in the Cayman Islands recommended that coastal residents move to higher ground, anticipating waves between 0.3 and 1 meter in height. Later, the local government declared the situation under control through an official statement.

In Puerto Rico, Governor Jenniffer González Colón reported that she was in contact with emergency teams following the tsunami warning. Alarms were activated in the northwest region of the island, prompting many people to leave the coast and causing traffic congestion, according to local media. However, no official evacuation was deemed necessary.

In the Dominican Republic, a precautionary alert was issued, instructing residents to move away from the coast and seek areas at least 20 meters above sea level and 2 kilometers inland. Like in other locations, the advisory was lifted shortly after.

In Honduras, authorities stated that there were no reports of damage but advised the population to avoid beaches as a precaution. In Cuba, the government requested that citizens leave coastal areas until the risk was ruled out.

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