A 7.6-magnitude earthquake in the Caribbean triggers tsunami alerts for several countries, including Cuba and Puerto Rico. The USGS indicates that such earthquakes are expected in this region, with a previous quake recorded in 2018. Despite the severity, the remote epicenter may limit damage potential.
A significant earthquake measuring 7.6 on the Richter scale has occurred in the Caribbean Sea, prompting tsunami warnings for several nations, according to reports from the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The earthquake’s epicenter was located approximately 20 miles (32.1 kilometers) north of Honduras and around 130 miles (209.2 kilometers) south-west of the Cayman Islands.
Several tsunami alerts have been issued across the region, affecting countries including Colombia, the Cayman Islands, Costa Rica, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Cuba. Furthermore, the National Weather Service has cautioned residents of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands about the potential dangers posed by strong currents and waves in proximity to the water.
The USGS noted that the occurrence of large earthquakes at this site along the tectonic plate boundary is not an unusual phenomenon. Notably, a nearby earthquake with a magnitude of 7.5 was recorded in 2018, which resulted in damage and a minor tsunami. The agency indicated that the remoteness of these seismic events tends to limit the extent of potential destruction related to shaking.
The Caribbean region is known for its tectonic activity due to the presence of several plate boundaries. Earthquakes in this area can trigger subsequent tsunamis, hence the issuance of warnings is a vital precautionary measure. Understanding the geological background helps in recognizing the risks associated with such natural disasters, which can lead to widespread alerts and impact local populations and infrastructures.
In summary, the 7.6-magnitude earthquake in the Caribbean has prompted multiple tsunami warnings across various nations. Though large earthquakes are not uncommon in this region, the remote location helps mitigate the possible impacts of shaking. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure public safety amidst these seismic events.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
