KINGSTON, Jamaica — A powerful 7.6 magnitude earthquake rattled the Caribbean Sea late Saturday evening, sending tremors across multiple nations and sparking widespread concern over potential aftershocks. The quake, which struck at a depth of approximately 10 kilometers, was felt in countries spanning from Central America to the Greater Antilles, triggering emergency responses and precautionary warnings.
Though the United States Tsunami Warning System initially issued alerts for over a dozen nations, including Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, and Mexico, the majority were later rescinded. However, officials maintained heightened tsunami alerts for Cuba, Honduras, and the Cayman Islands, where authorities warned of possible coastal flooding and dangerous sea level fluctuations.
In Cuba, emergency services were mobilized as experts projected waves of up to 10 feet in certain coastal areas. Meanwhile, the Cayman Islands government urged residents in low-lying areas to seek higher ground, and officials in Honduras remained on high alert for potential three-foot surges along their coastline.
Despite the widespread tremors, no immediate reports of major casualties or structural damage have emerged, though assessments are still ongoing. Experts warn that aftershocks could follow in the coming hours or days, and coastal residents in affected regions are advised to remain vigilant.
The Caribbean, a region prone to tectonic activity due to its position along the boundary of several geological plates, has a history of significant seismic events, including the devastating 2010 earthquake in Haiti and the 2018 quake near the coast of Honduras. Scientists continue to monitor for further activity and urge preparedness in vulnerable areas.
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
