In a region already reeling from natural disasters, the Caribbean Sea experienced a significant magnitude-7.6 earthquake on Saturday, prompting a series of tsunami alerts and precautionary measures. The United States Geological Survey reported that the earthquake struck at 6:23 p.m. local time with its epicenter located south-southwest of the Cayman Islands.
Authorities in various islands and countries swiftly responded to the earthquake, initially urging residents near the coastline to move inland as a precautionary measure. The U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center issued alerts for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, while Hazard Management Cayman Islands warned of expected wave heights of 0.3 to 1 meter.
However, as the situation evolved and assessments were made, authorities began to lift the tsunami alerts. Puerto Rico Governor Jenniffer González Colón maintained contact with emergency agencies but did not advise coastal evacuation. In Puerto Rico’s northwest region, the sounding of alarms led to a temporary exodus from coastal areas and heavy traffic.
The Dominican government also issued and later canceled a tsunami alert, recommending residents move to higher ground. Similarly, Honduran officials urged caution and instructed residents to avoid beaches. In Cuba, the government advised individuals to vacate beachfront areas as a precaution.
While the earthquake prompted a swift response and raised concerns, immediate reports indicated no substantial damages in the affected regions. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration cautioned of possible tsunami waves reaching heights of 1 to 3 meters above tide levels along some coasts of Cuba, underscoring the need for continued vigilance even as the tsunami alerts were lifted.