Powerful Earthquake Strikes the Caribbean Sea, Triggers Widespread Tsunami Alerts

A powerful earthquake, measuring 7.6 in magnitude, has rocked the Caribbean Sea, prompting tsunami warnings across various countries, as reported by the US Geological Survey (USGS).

Authorities have identified the quake’s epicenter to be about 20 miles (32.1 km) north of Honduras and approximately 130 miles (209.2 km) southwest of the Cayman Islands.

The region has seen several tsunami warnings, affecting coastlines in Colombia, the Cayman Islands, Costa Rica, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Cuba.

Initially, the National Weather Service issued a tsunami advisory concerning potential threats to Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands. However, this advisory was rescinded roughly 45 minutes later.

“Although the alerts have been lifted, strong and unusual currents might persist. Please exercise caution near the water,” advised the National Tsunami Warning Centre.

“Stay informed by checking the latest updates from local emergency management agencies.”

Despite the cancellation of some alerts, the government of the Cayman Islands has cautioned its residents that the threat of a tsunami still looms.

“People living close to the coast should consider moving further inland,” they advised.

The USGS noted that significant earthquakes in this plate boundary region are not unexpected.

Back in 2018, a nearby earthquake of 7.5 magnitude resulted in minor damage and a small tsunami, the study mentioned.

“Fortunately, the isolated location of these seismic events reduces the likelihood of severe damage from the tremors,” the USGS added.

Elsewhere, the US National Tsunami Warning Centre confirmed that there are no alerts for the mainland US coast.