Major Earthquake Shakes Caribbean, Tsunami Threat Subsides
A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.6 struck the Caribbean between Honduras and the Cayman Islands on February 8, 2025. The tremor triggered a Tsunami Advisory for Puerto Rico and nearby islands, though the threat later subsided.
Earthquake Details & Location
The earthquake was centered more than 100 miles southwest of George Town, Cayman Islands, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The tremor was felt across the Yucatán Peninsula, Nicaragua, Honduras, and possibly as far as Cuba’s southern coast.
Tsunami Advisory Issued & Impact
Following the earthquake, the U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center (NTWC) reported a minor sea-level rise at Isla Mujeres, Mexico, measuring 1.2 inches. Although small, this still classified the event as a tsunami. Authorities warned of strong ocean currents, which could pose risks to boaters and beachgoers.
No Major Damage or Casualties Reported
Despite the powerful tremor, no immediate damage or injuries were reported by emergency management agencies across Central America and the Caribbean. Experts noted that aftershocks could persist for months but are unlikely to match the original quake’s intensity.
Geological Context: The Cayman Trough
The earthquake occurred along the Cayman Trough, a fault line that marks the boundary between the North American and Caribbean tectonic plates. While earthquakes are common in the region, tsunamis are relatively rare since fault lines typically don’t displace large volumes of seawater.
Historical Earthquakes in the Caribbean
The Caribbean has experienced several devastating earthquakes in recent history, including:
- Haiti (2010) – A 7.0 magnitude earthquake killed over 200,000 people.
- Haiti (2021) – A 7.2 magnitude earthquake caused widespread destruction.
- Jamaica (2020) – A 7.7 magnitude earthquake was felt from Central America to Florida, but no major damage was reported.
Final Thoughts
The Cayman Islands earthquake serves as a reminder of the seismic risks in the Caribbean. While no serious damage was reported this time, residents and authorities remain vigilant for aftershocks and future seismic activity.
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