Seismic activity near Antigua: Seven earthquakes recorded

Seven earthquakes were reported to the regional authorities over the weekend, occurring offshore of the northeastern part of Antigua.

The University of the West Indies (UWI) Seismic Research Centre notes that these seismic events occurred in the sea about 89 to 91 kilometers (55 to 57 miles) away from the Antigua coast. The quakes ranged from mild to severe, with the most severe measuring a magnitude of 4.2.

Even with these strong waves, there is no evidence that it had been felt by the natives of Antigua and Barbuda. Although there are no apparent impacts of the event, this does not deny that the occurrence of this series of earthquakes within a short time and within a limited region is quite rare.

This cluster of earthquakes still attracts attention in the Caribbean region, which is seismically active due to its location on several tectonic plate boundaries.

The Caribbean is located in a region characterized by many tectonic plates, some of which include the North American, the Caribbean, and South American plates. This cluster was one of the strongest, with a magnitude of 4.2 on the scale, which falls under average shaking intensity for this area.

Seismologists working at the UWI Seismic Research Centre are currently closely observing the situation. Their current study is focused on finding whether these kinds of earthquakes in the areas can cause more such earthquakes to follow or if it was just a one-time event.

The main objective of the Centre therefore is to minimize the time it takes before the next earthquake or the next earthquake aftershocks occur and to ensure the public is informed of its occurrence.

Meanwhile, for the citizens and tourists, it is imperative to pay attention to the situation that is occurring around. The UWI Seismic Research Centre will continue to issue reports as they work through the data revolving around the activities as well as any further occurrences.

Remedial action or other precautionary measures are still possible to undertake in order to address any future shake or any other related incidents.

Seismic activity near Antigua, in recent years, has not directly affected the island but it once more reminds that Caribbean region resides on an active seismic zone.

The UWI Seismic Research Centre which must continue to monitor the area for the next few weeks so that updates are provided to the populace.