Earthquake near Honduras brings tsunami threat to Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands
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An earthquake with a magnitude of 7.6 occurred 20 miles north of Honduras, according to the USGS.
The earthquake struck at 6.23 p.m. Eastern Time on Saturday, as reported by the USGS.
Based on all available data, there is a tsunami threat to Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, as sea level fluctuations and strong ocean currents could pose hazards along coasts, beaches, in harbors, and coastal waters.
The US National Tsunami Warning Center stated that hazardous sea level fluctuations and strong ocean currents may begin in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands as early as 8.48 p.m. Eastern Time on Saturday.
The generation of tsunami waves has not yet been confirmed, and the NTWC is actively monitoring the situation to evaluate the tsunami threat.
Residents in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands are advised to:
- Move off the beach
- Stay away from harbors, marinas, bays, and inlets
- Refrain from going to shore to observe the tsunami
This is a developing story and will be updated.