Tsunami Alert Issued Following 7.6 Magnitude Earthquake Near Popular Tourist Spot

Powerful 7.6 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Caribbean, Triggers Tsunami Warning

A powerful earthquake measuring 7.6 on the Richter scale struck the Caribbean Sea on Monday evening, prompting widespread concern and triggering tsunami warnings across several countries in the region.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the earthquake occurred at 6:23 p.m. local time. The epicenter was located approximately 20 miles north of Honduras and 130 miles southwest of the Cayman Islands, at a depth of around 6 miles beneath the ocean floor.

The tremor was one of the strongest to hit the Caribbean in recent years and was felt across multiple nations, including Honduras, Belize, Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, and parts of Mexico. In some areas, residents reported buildings swaying, light fixtures shaking, and people rushing out of homes and businesses to open spaces as a precaution.

The USGS initially issued a tsunami alert for several countries bordering the Caribbean Sea, including Honduras, Belize, Cuba, Jamaica, Mexico, and the Cayman Islands. Authorities advised coastal residents to remain vigilant and to move to higher ground if necessary. Fortunately, several hours after the quake, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center reported that the threat had largely passed and no significant tsunami waves were observed.

Despite the quake’s magnitude, early reports suggested minimal structural damage in major populated areas. However, officials cautioned that damage assessments were still underway, particularly in more remote coastal communities. Power outages and communication disruptions were reported in some regions closest to the epicenter.

Emergency response teams were activated in Honduras and neighboring countries to monitor the situation and prepare for potential aftershocks, which are common following earthquakes of this strength. Seismologists warned that aftershocks could continue for several days and urged residents to remain cautious.

In the Cayman Islands, the tremor caused temporary panic, with some buildings being evacuated. There were no immediate reports of injuries or major damage, but authorities said inspections were ongoing to ensure infrastructure safety.

As of now, no casualties have been confirmed, but local governments continue to coordinate with disaster management agencies to ensure the safety of residents and tourists.

This event serves as a stark reminder of the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity, and officials reiterated the importance of preparedness in earthquake-prone zones.