Tsunami Alerts Lifted After Powerful Caribbean Earthquake
A powerful 7.6-magnitude earthquake struck the Caribbean Sea on Saturday evening, shaking the region and prompting initial tsunami warnings. The earthquake's epicenter was recorded approximately 20 miles (32 km) north of Honduras and about 130 miles (209 km) southwest of the Cayman Islands, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). While the tremor triggered immediate concerns over a potential tsunami, officials have since confirmed that the threat has passed, and all tsunami alerts have been cancelled.
The US Tsunami Warning System initially issued advisories for multiple countries in the region, warning that waves as high as three meters (10 feet) could potentially hit coastal areas. Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands were among the locations placed under advisories, with coastal residents urged to move to higher ground as a precaution. However, these alerts were later lifted as no significant tsunami waves were observed.
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Authorities in the Cayman Islands also advised residents near the shore to move inland for safety. While initial warnings created concern, there have been no confirmed reports of widespread damage or casualties at this time. The earthquake was one of the most significant to hit the region in recent years, with the last comparable event occurring in 2021 when a 7.2-magnitude earthquake struck Haiti.
Despite the cancellation of tsunami warnings, officials cautioned that minor sea level fluctuations—up to 30 centimeters (11.8 inches)—could still occur in some areas. The USGS noted that large earthquakes along this tectonic boundary are not uncommon, recalling a similar 7.5-magnitude earthquake in 2018 that caused minor damage and a small tsunami.
Honduran authorities have reported no immediate signs of destruction but have urged residents to stay cautious. Similarly, government agencies in Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and the Bahamas issued temporary tsunami advisories before confirming that no significant threat remained.
This event serves as a reminder of the seismic activity in the Caribbean region. While the risk of a destructive tsunami has subsided, experts emphasize the importance of staying prepared for future natural disasters. Fortunately, the remote location of this earthquake helped minimize the potential impact, preventing a more severe disaster.
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