A 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck near the Cayman Islands, prompting tsunami advisories for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands due to its significant seismic activity recorded at 6:23 p.m. EST.
A significant earthquake, registering 7.6 on the Richter scale, occurred in the Caribbean Sea, approximately 130 miles southwest of the Cayman Islands. This seismic event, recorded by the U.S. Geological Survey at 6:23 p.m. EST, surfaced between the Cayman Islands and Honduras. As a result, a tsunami advisory has been activated for nearby regions including Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, prompting precautionary measures for residents.
Earthquakes are natural phenomena that occur due to sudden shifts in the Earth’s tectonic plates. The Cayman Islands are situated near a tectonic boundary, making them susceptible to seismic activity. This particular earthquake’s magnitude qualifies as powerful, indicating considerable energy release that can lead to secondary hazards such as tsunamis, necessitating advisories for vulnerable coastal areas.
In summary, the 7.6-magnitude earthquake west of the Cayman Islands has raised concerns due to its potential to cause a tsunami. The event highlights the geological risks faced by regions located near tectonic plate boundaries. Authorities are urged to monitor further developments as this is a fluid situation with ongoing assessments and updates expected soon.
Original Source: www.newsweek.com
