Earthquake of magnitude 4.9 jolts Trinidad and Tobago

A magnitude of 4.9 earthquake struck several parts of Trinidad and Tobago on Saturday, 7^th September 2024. The University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre stated that the earthquake of 4.9 magnitude was recorded in the region at 3:06 pm, local time.

As per the details, no immediate reports of any injury or deaths have been recorded yet. According to UW10 Seismic Research Centres preliminary reports, the earthquake’s epicentre was at Latitude 11.27 N and Longitude 61.50 W, with a depth of 10kms.

The tremors of the earthquake were felt in Port of Spain, 67 km, N; Arima, 74 km, NNW; and Scarborough, 85 km, West.

The UWI held a preliminary location, which was calculated using computer algorithms. These reports are subjected to potential revisions and pending evaluation by SRC analysts.

The authorities of Trinidad and Tobago has asked all the citizens to be aware and follow preventive measures in order to avoid any kind of threat or danger. The citizens of the affected areas have also been advised to stay updated regarding the information of weather disruption and earthquake.

Moreover, with a vision to ensure and enhance the safety and security of all the residents of the country, the authorities have shared few safety tips. The authorities noted that the citizens need to vigilant and be informed by receiving alerts, warnings, and public safety information before, during, and after emergencies.

They have also asked all the citizens to Identify safe places to take cover (such as under a sturdy piece of furniture) in their home, office, or school. During the Earthquake, the citizens have also been advised to stay away from buildings, streetlights and utility wires, prioritizing their safety and security.

The tremors of the earthquake were felt by several citizens of the country who took to their social media accounts and shared their experience. One person commented “I was sitting in my car in a car park and felt my car jerking. Thought someone hit me yes. But it was very brief.”

Another person with Facebook handle Ma Keda commented “Felt it…looked around the office everyone else was normal, no one else felt. Saw a bottled of water shaking with no one around, reassured myself I wasn’t crazy, I was just grounded.”

“I felt it at 3:06 pm. Lying in bed scrolling through my phone in San Juan. Take care everyone. Be safe. Peace always,” wrote user named Matt Seba. “Yes, I felt it in El dorado. but no one believed me. They said was the trucks passing on the road, felt the ground shake. It was after 2:30 I think,” wrote Tamara N. Singh.