Moderate earthquake strikes North Atlantic near Antigua and Barbuda: No damage reported

A moderate earthquake of magnitude 4.8, struck the North Atlantic Ocean, approximately 174 kilometers east of Barbuda Island, Antigua and Barbuda, on September 23, 2024, at 1:58 PM local time (GMT -4).

According to the Colombian Geological Service (SGC), the event took place at a depth of 14 km of latitude and had an energy liberated in the seismic sense of 239 tons of TNT.

Surprisingly, while the earthquake was said to have occurred close to the mentioned islands, it only affected areas close to the region by producing very weak effects. Codrington in Barbuda, the closest town to the epicenter which is 175 kilometers away, most probably experienced slight effects of the quake.

People from other regions such as All Saints and St. John’s in Antigua also complained of weak earthquakes with no discussed losses and casualties.

The earthquake’s vibrations were mostly experienced in the region with influences felt in Guadeloupe, Montserrat, and Dominica. However, the shaking in these locations was reported to be very weak.

As with any Caribbean Island, this region is prone to illustrious earthquakes and this disaster clearly shows that the necessary measures should be taken for the disaster prevention.

Mayors of various districts and other related disaster preparedness teams have been informed of the earthquake. At the moment there are no warning or advisory statements to be made, and the domains entities are on alert for any further activity.

Information surfaced that there have been no great losses resulting from the earthquake, especially knowing that the region is very much prone to such experiences.

Such earthquakes make the residents aware of the existence of seismic zones in the region and also warn them to be ready for any more such disturbances. The area has also in the past been prone to earthquake and hence it is important that the public continue to update themselves with the emergency measures and plans.

Following the recent earthquake experience, officials are urging residents to learn more about how to prepare for such earthquakes, like strapping large items to walls and putting together emergency supplies.

Practically, schools and community organisations also need to carry out simulations and talk about earthquake preparedness so that people know all the procedures in case of a more complicated situation.

The earthquake supports the call for further utilisation of funds on disaster preparedness and risk reduction in the Caribbean countries. Educational publicity can assist in creating awareness levels in relation to the main areas of seismic concerns and thus foster the pro-preparedness crusade.