Significant Earthquakes Strike Trinidad and Tobago

On Tuesday, Trinidad and Tobago were rocked by two earthquakes, including a significant one measuring 5.1 in magnitude. The events led to no reported damage or injuries, but they were felt widely across the capital, Port of Spain, and in parts of Venezuela. This series of earthquakes follows a previous tremor that occurred on Saturday.

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad – On Tuesday, two earthquakes struck Trinidad and Tobago, including a significant tremor measuring 5.1 in magnitude. The Seismic Research Centre (SRC) at the University of the West Indies in St Augustine reported that the primary quake occurred at 8:21 a.m. local time, located at Latitude 10.98N and Longitude 62.42W, at a depth of 71 kilometers. This tremor was felt throughout the capital, Port of Spain, and was noted in surrounding areas such as Arima, approximately 132 kilometers to the west-northwest, and Carúpano, Venezuela, located 96 kilometers to the northeast. Earlier that day, a smaller quake at 3:38 a.m. local time registered a magnitude of 3.6. This tremor was recorded at the coordinates Latitude 10.98N and Longitude 62.64W, with a depth of 56 kilometers. Observations indicate it was felt in Port of Spain and near Porlamar, Venezuela, 134 kilometers to the east. These recent seismic events followed a magnitude 4.0 earthquake that occurred on Saturday, which affected regions including Castries in St Lucia, Fort-de-France in Martinique, and Bridgetown in Barbados.

The seismic activity in Trinidad and Tobago is a reminder of the region’s geological instability, attributed to its location near the boundary of two tectonic plates. Earthquakes of varying magnitudes occur sporadically and can have implications for the densely populated capital and surrounding areas. The Seismic Research Centre plays a pivotal role in monitoring seismic events and informing the public about potential risks and safety protocols. Understanding these geological events is crucial for preparedness and response measures within the communities affected.

In conclusion, Trinidad and Tobago experienced two earthquakes on Tuesday, with the most substantial tremor reaching a magnitude of 5.1. Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of damage or injuries. The implications of these quakes reinforce the importance of public awareness regarding seismic events in the region, emphasizing the need for preparedness and effective communication from research institutions like the SRC.

Original Source: jamaica-gleaner.com