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A magnitude 7.6 earthquake was registered this Saturday with its epicenter located north of Honduras, according to the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC). The tremor occurred at a depth of 33 kilometers.
After the earthquake, the PTWC issued a tsunami alert for various regions of the Caribbean, including the Cayman Islands, Jamaica, Cuba, Mexico, Honduras, the Bahamas, San Andrés and Providencia, Belize, Haiti, Costa Rica, Panama, Nicaragua, and Guatemala.
It is estimated that dangerous waves could impact coastal areas located within a radius of 1,000 kilometers from the epicenter.
It is recommended to stay away from the beaches and seek elevated ground as a precautionary measure.
The PTWC has indicated that a tsunami is a series of waves, and the time between their arrivals can vary from five minutes to one hour. The threat may persist for several hours after the first wave.
It is expected that authorities will issue updates as more information becomes available.
The population must stay informed through official channels and be prepared for possible evacuations if conditions require it.
In Cuba, the cities and regions most likely to be affected are those located on the northern and western coasts of the country, especially those at low altitude and near the sea. Some of the most vulnerable include:
Santiago de Cuba – Located on the southeast coast, it is one of the regions most exposed to seismic events and tsunamis in the Caribbean.
Guantánamo (Baracoa) – The city of Baracoa, in the province of Guantánamo, is coastal and has been affected by similar phenomena in the past.
Holguín (Gibara and Banes) – This province, located in the northeast of Cuba, features several coastal towns with low elevation.
Camagüey (Santa Cruz del Sur) – Historically, this region has been impacted by extreme marine events, such as the devastating hurricane of 1932 that caused significant storm surges.
Havana – Although it is not at the epicenter of risk, its location on the northern coast makes it susceptible to possible variations in sea level.
Matanzas (Varadero and the Bay of Matanzas) – Being on the north coast and having low-lying areas, it may experience minor impacts.
Ciego de Ávila (Cayo Coco and Cayo Guillermo) – The tourist areas of the Jardines del Rey archipelago are vulnerable due to their proximity to the sea.
Precautionary measures:
- Stay informed through local authorities and the Cuban Institute of Meteorology.
- Evacuate to higher ground if official alerts are issued.
- Stay away from the beaches and coastal areas until the alert is lifted.
- Cuban authorities are already monitoring the situation and may issue new recommendations depending on the evolution of the phenomenon.
Frequently Asked Questions about the tsunami alert in the Caribbean and its impact on Cuba
Why was a tsunami alert issued in the Caribbean, including Cuba?
The tsunami alert was issued due to a 7.6 magnitude earthquake centered north of Honduras. This type of earthquake can generate dangerous waves that may affect coastal areas within a radius of 1,000 kilometers from the epicenter.
Which regions of Cuba are most vulnerable to tsunamis?
The most vulnerable regions of Cuba are those located on the northern and western coast, especially the low-lying areas. Some of the most prone zones include Santiago de Cuba, Guantánamo, Holguín, Camagüey, Havana, Matanzas, and Ciego de Ávila.
What precautions should residents of Cuba take in the event of a tsunami alert?
Residents should stay informed through local authorities and the Cuban Meteorological Institute, evacuate to higher ground if official alerts are issued, and stay away from beaches and coastal areas until the alert is lifted. Cuban authorities are monitoring the situation and may issue new recommendations.
How long can the threat of a tsunami last after an earthquake?
The PTWC has indicated that a tsunami is a series of waves, and the time between their arrivals can vary from five minutes to an hour, with the threat potentially lasting for several hours after the first wave.
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