A magnitude 7.6 earthquake struck in the western Caribbean, prompting a tsunami advisory for the Cayman Islands, but Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands were cleared of the threat. The earthquake occurred at a depth of about 6 miles below ground, south-southwest of George Town. The Cayman Islands government’s hazard management agency issued an “all clear” for its islands after an initial tsunami alert. No tsunami was observed. The agency warned of the power of tsunamis, which can cause significant damage despite their appearance. Cuba was also under threat of a tsunami between 3-10 feet high. Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands were advised to evacuate the waters as a precaution. The earthquake, initially measured at 8.0, was later reassessed to be 7.6. It occurred at a strike slip fault near the boundary of the North America and Caribbean tectonic plates. The USGS stated that such large earthquakes in this region are not unexpected, with 10 magnitude 6 or greater temblors occurring in the last century. A notable earthquake in the area in January 2018 caused some damage and a small tsunami. The remote location of these earthquakes limits the potential for significant damage. The USGS emphasizes the need for caution and preparedness in earthquake-prone regions.
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