A 7.6-magnitude earthquake struck the Caribbean near Honduras on Saturday, triggering a tsunami advisory for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. The advisory was canceled within a couple of hours, but residents are still urged to avoid beaches and coastal waters for safety reasons.
A tsunami warning was activated after a powerful 7.6-magnitude earthquake struck the Caribbean near Honduras on Saturday at 6:23 PM EST, according to the United States Geological Survey. The US Tsunami Warning System issued alerts advising residents in the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico to evacuate from beaches and water areas while they assessed potential tsunami risks.
Approximately two hours following the earthquake, the National Weather Service in San Juan lifted the tsunami advisory at 8:13 PM. Nevertheless, authorities continue to recommend that individuals in the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico remain away from coastal areas, including harbors, marinas, bays, and inlets, although the immediate tsunami threat has passed.
The earthquake was recorded at a depth of 6.21 miles. Emergency officials are monitoring the situation closely, but the initial tsunami warning and subsequent advisory have prompted calls for caution among local residents, even as the warning status has changed.
In the aftermath of the earthquake, residents should prioritize safety and heed any updated information from local authorities regarding weather conditions and potential hazards. Members of the community near the affected areas are advised to stay alert for any future developments from relevant agencies regarding seismic activity.
Earthquakes in the Caribbean region can have severe impacts due to the presence of tectonic plate boundaries nearby. The 7.6-magnitude earthquake near Honduras could induce significant oceanic disturbances, prompting tsunami warnings. The US Tsunami Warning System is an essential resource for monitoring such seismic events and providing timely alerts to minimize risks to life and property in coastal areas. Disaster preparedness is critical in regions prone to these natural occurrences.
In summary, a 7.6-magnitude earthquake struck the Caribbean, prompting tsunami warnings for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, which were later rescinded. Safety precautions remain in place as officials advise residents to stay out of coastal waters and seek higher ground until the situation is confirmed safe. Continued vigilance is essential in the face of such natural disasters.
Original Source: www.gbnews.com
