On Saturday, a magnitude-7.6 earthquake shook the Caribbean Sea south of the Cayman Islands. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the quake prompted several islands and countries to issue tsunami alerts, which were later lifted by local authorities.

Earthquake Details

The earthquake struck at 6:23 p.m. local time in the open sea, with a depth of 10 kilometers. Its epicenter was located 130 miles (209 kilometers) southwest of George Town in the Cayman Islands.

Tsunami Alerts

While there was no tsunami alert for the U.S. mainland, the U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center issued a tsunami advisory for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Both advisories were cancelled in the following hours.

Advisories in the Cayman Islands

Hazard Management Cayman Islands initially urged coastal residents to evacuate to higher ground, anticipating wave heights of 0.3 to 1 meter. However, the Cayman Islands government later issued an “all clear” on their Facebook page.

Response in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico Governor Jenniffer González Colón remained in contact with emergency agencies following the advisory. She advised residents to remain calm and stated that there was no reason to leave coastal areas. The former sounded of alarms in Puerto Rico’s northwest region caused widespread traffic.

Actions in the Dominican Republic

The Dominican government issued a tsunami alert, recommending residents evacuate coastal areas more than 20 meters in altitude and two kilometers inland. The alert was later rescinded.

Honduran and Cuban Authorities

Honduran officials reported no immediate damage and advised residents to avoid the beaches. Meanwhile, Cuban authorities requested beachfront evacuations, given the possibility of tsunami waves reaching 1 to 3 meters above tide levels.

Official Statements and Recommendations

In the face of such natural events, it is crucial to follow official guidelines. Authorities in the affected regions stressed the importance of staying informed and adhering to safety instructions. While tsunami warnings may cause temporary chaos and inconvenience, they serve as essential precautionary measures.

Conclusion

Although the tremor triggered alarm bells and precautionary evacuations, it highlights the importance of being prepared for potential natural disasters. Quick actions by local authorities helped mitigate undue panic, ensuring the safety of residents.