A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 5.9 struck Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic early Tuesday morning, sending shockwaves through the region. The tremor hit just before 2 a.m. local time, with the epicenter located 64 miles north-northeast of Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, a popular tourist destination. The quake was also felt in western Puerto Rico, raising alarms among residents.
Ongoing Seismic Activity
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), this earthquake is part of a series of tremors that have been recorded in the area since Monday morning. At least 10 earthquakes have occurred in the region, though no significant damage has been reported. Authorities are keeping a close watch on the situation to monitor the possibility of aftershocks.
The Caribbean region is located at the meeting point of several tectonic plates, making it highly vulnerable to earthquakes. The area has experienced devastating quakes in the past, such as the deadly 7.0-magnitude earthquake in Haiti in 2010, which caused widespread destruction. Puerto Rico also suffered from a 6.4-magnitude earthquake in 2020, damaging homes and infrastructure.
Tsunami Warning Not Issued, But Caution Urged
Despite the strength of the earthquake, no tsunami warning has been issued. Emergency teams in both Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic are assessing the damage and ensuring the safety of residents. Geologists warn that aftershocks are possible, urging locals to stay alert and prepared for any additional seismic activity.
Experts continue to stress the importance of earthquake preparedness in the Caribbean. They call for stronger buildings, better early-warning systems, and more public education on how to respond in an emergency. With the region’s history of seismic events, it remains crucial to strengthen safety measures.
While the latest tremor did not cause major damage, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing seismic risks in the Caribbean. Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation and provide updates to keep residents and visitors informed and safe.
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