Severe Earthquake Triggers Tsunami Warnings Across Caribbean Islands
A 7.6 magnitude earthquake shook the Caribbean Sea near the Cayman Islands, prompting tsunami advisories for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Coastal residents were warned to evacuate or move inland. The Dominican Republic and Cuba issued alerts, advising residents to seek higher ground. NOAA reported possible tsunami waves along several coastlines.
On February 8, 2025, a magnitude-7.6 earthquake struck the Caribbean Sea, southwest of the Cayman Islands, at 6:23 PM local time. The quake had a depth of 10 kilometers and its epicenter was located 130 miles (209 kilometers) south-southwest of George Town. In response, some islands and countries issued warnings urging residents along the coastline to evacuate or move to higher ground to prepare for potential tsunami threats.
The U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center indicated that while there is no tsunami alert for the U.S. mainland, a tsunami advisory was issued for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Hazard Management in the Cayman Islands advised coastal residents to move inland to escape possible wave heights of 0.3 to 1 meter. In Puerto Rico, Governor Jenniffer González Colón is coordinating with emergency services, though she has not issued an evacuation recommendation.
The Dominican Republic announced a tsunami alert, advising coastal residents to evacuate to high ground situated more than 20 meters above sea level and at least 2 kilometers inland. Additionally, vessels were advised to avoid the coastal waters for several hours. The Cuban government has also encouraged people to vacate beachfront regions.
In Honduras, authorities reported no immediate damage but urged residents to refrain from visiting beaches in the upcoming hours. Meanwhile, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) suggested the possibility of tsunami waves reaching between 1 to 3 meters along certain coasts in Cuba, with heights of 0.3 to 1 meter potentially affecting parts of Honduras and the Cayman Islands as well.
The situation remains fluid as government agencies continue to monitor wave activity and assess coastal conditions. Residents in affected areas are advised to stay informed about the latest updates.
Seismic activity in the Caribbean region often warrants close monitoring due to the potential for tsunamis and significant aftershocks. Earthquakes like the one on February 8, 2025, can have widespread effects not only near the epicenter but also across multiple islands and coastal areas, necessitating rapid communication and preparedness protocols. Understanding local geography and tsunami warning systems is vital for minimizing risks in vulnerable communities.
The recent 7.6 magnitude earthquake in the Caribbean highlighted the importance of tsunami preparedness across affected islands. While U.S. mainland areas are not directly threatened, advisories for regional islands illustrate the need for ongoing vigilance. Local governments are implementing safety measures to protect residents, demonstrating the crucial role of timely information dissemination and community responsiveness following seismic events.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
