Seven earthquakes were reported underwater off the northeastern coast of Antigua this weekend to the regional authorities. These seismic events occurred in the ocean between 89 and 91 kilometres (55 and 57 miles) off the coast of Antigua, according to the University of the West Indies (UWI) Seismic Research Centre.
The Earthquakes happened close together, over a few minutes, and were located at the west-northwest of Antigua at shallow depths of up to 14 km. The largest known earthquake to have occurred in this region is 4.2.
Recent seismic activity has mostly affected the ocean floor, with little effect on land. The aftershocks highlight how active the tectonic plates are around Antigua, which is the case for most Caribbean regions. It is an area influenced by the movements of three plates: North American, Caribbean and South American.
There are earthquakes, but they are rarely powerful ones. Recently, earthquakes in Antigua threw light at active tectonic plates of the Caribbean region, which is seismically active due to its location near several tectonic plate boundaries.
According to the UWI Seismic Research Centre, measuring seven earthquakes in just a few moments of time over a weekend is concerning. This seismic activity event only calls for more investigation. Local officials are actively monitoring an unusual pattern of seismic activity despite people not noticing or feeling anything as such.
UWI Seismic Research Centre Seismologists are working further on this and conducting extensive research. They can be viewed as warnings of something larger that may still occur or if this was a singular occurrence.
The UWI Seismic Research Centre aims to improve awareness about earthquakes and their risks. It not only decreases the response time between the occurrence of an earthquake and any subsequent aftershocks but also stays updated for any climatical change.
Antigua has a history of destructive earthquakes and tsunamis; they have experienced that before they knew they should be prepared for seismic activity. Locals and tourists are advised to pay attention and stay informed of any UWI Seismic Research Centre updates, even though no immediate action is required.
People are encouraged to take preventative actions, such as avoiding coastal areas and poorly constructed buildings and quickly leaving unconstructed structures if they sense seismic activity, to reduce the risks and be safe. The UWI Seismic Research Centre informs the public about current data and any changing circumstances by regular advisories.
Even though no one in Antigua has noticed the earthquakes, seismologists have said that people should always be prepared since it’s an earthquake-prone area. UWI Seismic Research also stated, “Our primary concern now is whether these earthquakes will trigger aftershocks or additional seismic events shortly“.
