The tsunami threat for the Caribbean, following a 7.6-magnitude earthquake near the Cayman Islands on February 8, has been lifted by the National Weather Service. Initial concerns of significant surges did not materialize, and there were no reports of injuries. Cruise operations are resuming, though authorities caution about potential aftershocks in the upcoming days.
The Caribbean has returned to calm following the lifting of tsunami advisories after a 7.6-magnitude earthquake occurred near the Cayman Islands on February 8. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Weather Service (NWS) confirmed no significant tsunami threats remained, noting only minor unusual currents might affect certain areas after a comprehensive evaluation. \n\nThe earthquake had initially raised alarms suggesting potential surges of up to 10 feet; however, the actual impact was less severe than anticipated. Reports from over 350 individuals indicated that they felt the tremor, but there were no reports of injuries or major damages related to the event. \n\nCruise operations in the area have resumed their regular schedules. The Celebrity Summit, closest to the earthquake’s epicenter, extended its stay in George Town, Grand Cayman, for an additional five hours, and is now returning to Fort Lauderdale. \n\nThe Seven Seas Grandeur, which was departing from Costa Maya, Mexico during the earthquake, is currently en route to Falmouth, Jamaica, scheduled for a stop on February 10. The earthquake prompted high alert across multiple Caribbean territories, including Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, and others. \n\nComplicating the assessment were issues with tsunami detection buoys, with five of six inoperable. Craig Setzer, a meteorologist with Royal Caribbean, reported that only one buoy recorded wave activity, while the others provided no data. \n\nDespite the removal of tsunami warnings, experts caution that aftershocks may still occur in the following days. Dani Coleman, director of Hazard Management Cayman Islands, emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant and following official guidance, as aftershocks are a common occurrence following primary seismic events. \n\nHowever, ships at sea are equipped to handle seismic-related sea conditions, and George Town’s tender port has no departures scheduled for February 9. Future arrivals include the Independence of the Seas on February 10 and several vessels on February 11, with no advisories issued ahead of their arrival.
In conclusion, the tsunami threat following the recent earthquake near the Cayman Islands has been officially lifted, allowing for a return to normalcy in the Caribbean region. The earthquake caused minimal impact, with no injuries reported and cruise operations resuming promptly. Nonetheless, monitoring for aftershocks remains crucial as authorities advise the public to stay informed.
Original Source: www.cruisehive.com
