A powerful magnitude 7.6 earthquake struck the Caribbean Sea on Saturday, approximately 130 miles (209 kilometers) south-southwest of George Town in the Cayman Islands, at a depth of about 10 kilometers (6 miles), according to the US Geological Survey
The quake occurred at 6.23 pm local time.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric administration issued a tsunami warning following the quake.
The US National Tsunami Warning Center said that there is no tsunami alert for the US mainland but issued a tsunami advisory for Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands.
As of now, there are no immediate reports of damage or casualties. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely and have advised residents in coastal areas to remain vigilant and follow any official guidance.
The Cayman Islands government issued a tsunami threat alert and urged “residents living near the coastline” to move inland. Similarly, Honduran authorities have asked people to stay away from beaches as a precaution.
According to the New York Post, areas of Haiti, Belize and the Bahamas remain under a potential tsunami threat. Meanwhile, an advisory has been issued for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.
Additionally, the International Tsunami information center warned that “hazardous tsunami waves” could impact several coastal areas within the next three hours, including Jamaica, Cuba, Mexico, Honduras, Turks and Caicos, San Andres Providence, Dominican Republic, Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica, Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao and the British Virgin Islands.
The devastating 1843 Guadeloupe earthquake , which had an estimated magnitude of 8.5 and caused significant destruction and loss of life in the Caribbean, occurred on the same date, February 8.
“With the latest modeling and information, the tsunami threat has passed,” the US National Tsunami Warning Center posted on X.
“There are no alerts posted for the United States or International Partners. The tsunami threat has passed. Unusual currents may be noticed in some areas. Exercise normal caution.”
“Luckily, the remote location of these earthquakes limits the potential for significant damage due to shaking,” the USGS said.
There are no reports of injuries or damage.
