A massive earthquake rattled the Caribbean Sea on Saturday, sending shockwaves through several countries. The quake, registering at a magnitude of 7.6, hit south of the Cayman Islands, sending authorities scrambling to issue tsunami warnings. But, fortunately, the warnings were short-lived, and no major damage was reported.
Earthquake details
The earthquake struck at 6:23 p.m. local time, deep in the sea. The U.S. Geological Survey confirmed the epicenter was 130 miles south-southwest of George Town, Cayman Islands. The depth of the earthquake was just 10 kilometers. This shallow quake had the potential to cause serious aftereffects, but most regions were able to avoid significant damage.
Tsunami warnings triggered, then lifted
In the wake of the earthquake, several Caribbean nations issued tsunami alerts. The U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center issued an advisory for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, which was later canceled. Though the alert created panic, the situation was quickly contained.
Cayman islands on high alert
Authorities in the Cayman Islands acted fast. They urged residents near the coast to move to higher ground. The warning predicted small waves, ranging from 0.3 to 1 meter in height. Thankfully, the “all clear” was soon given on social media, reassuring the public.
Puerto Rico faces tsunami advisory
Puerto Rico wasn’t spared from the chaos. Governor Jenniffer González Colón confirmed that she was in touch with emergency agencies. Despite the tsunami advisory, she didn’t recommend evacuations. Nevertheless, the alarm sounded in the northwest, causing widespread panic. People flooded the roads, and traffic became a nightmare, according to local news outlets.
Dominican Republic reacts quickly
The Dominican Republic wasn’t taking any chances either. The government issued a tsunami alert, urging coastal residents to head to higher ground. Authorities recommended people move more than 20 meters above sea level and at least 2 kilometers inland. However, like the rest of the alerts, this one was also called off shortly after.
No damage reports in Honduras
Honduras, though affected by the quake, reported no immediate damage. Authorities did advise citizens to stay away from the beaches for safety. Despite the tremors, the country appeared to escape the worst of the situation.
Cuba on alert for possible tsunami
Cuba was also on high alert. The Cuban government urged people to leave beachfront areas in anticipation of possible tsunami waves. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration warned that tsunami waves could reach up to 3 meters above tide levels along Cuba’s coastline.
The calm after the storm
Thankfully, the immediate danger passed. Despite the initial warnings and brief panic, no major damage was reported in the affected regions. Emergency teams continue to monitor the situation. While this earthquake was certainly alarming, it served as a reminder of the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity.
