28/01/2020
Cayman Struck By A 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake
The Cayman Islands were struck by a magnitude 7.7 earthquake on Tuesday afternoon. Previously, the strongest recorded earthquake in the Cayman Islands was on 14 December 2004, measured 6.8.
According to the United States Geological Survey the quake, which originated at a depth of 10km (6 miles), was felt in Cayman, Jamaica and Cuba, .
The tremor occurred around 2:10pm and lasted about two minutes. Over 10 aftershocks have been felt with the strongest tremor measuring 6.1 with the epicentre just 35 miles east of Grand Cayman. following the initial quake. Sinkholes swallowed large chunks of roads following the string of earthquakes.
Hazard Management Cayman Islands has announced the Tsunami All Clear and stated that “the tsunami threat from this earthquake has now passed and there is no further threat. A preliminary damage assessment is now underway and it has been confirmed that several sinkholes have opened up and at least one property has been structurally damaged, but there have been no confirmed reports of injuries to persons in the Cayman Islands. In the event of aftershocks persons inside buildings should duck, cover and hold until shaking stops. If outside move away from buildings, trees and anything that could fall from above”.