Moderate Earthquake Strikes North Atlantic Ocean, Near Barbuda
On the evening of Friday, August 30, 2024, a moderate earthquake with a magnitude of 4.3 struck the North Atlantic Ocean, approximately 88 kilometers east of Barbuda Island. The earthquake occurred at 10:40 p.m. local time (GMT -4), with a depth of 27 kilometers, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
The earthquake was reported by the USGS just 17 minutes after the tremor, and it was later confirmed by other seismological agencies including the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) and the Incorporated Research Institutions for Seismology (IRIS).
The epicenter of the earthquake was located at 17.5963°N latitude and 61.0117°W longitude, positioning it off the eastern coast of Barbuda. While the magnitude was moderate, the shaking was generally light, with a Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) of IV reported near the epicenter. The closest town to the epicenter, Codrington, located 87 kilometers west, experienced very weak shaking, classified as MMI II.
Despite its moderate magnitude, the quake did not appear to have caused any significant damage or injuries. No aftershocks have been recorded as of the most recent updates.
This earthquake is part of a region known for its seismic activity. Historical records show that this area experiences an average of 6.5 earthquakes of magnitude 4 or higher per year. The last significant earthquake in the region occurred just 15 weeks ago on May 19, 2024, when a 4.4 magnitude quake struck the Caribbean Sea, 93 kilometers south of this recent epicenter.
Residents in surrounding areas, including parts of Guadeloupe and Anguilla, might have felt very weak shaking, though no reports have confirmed widespread effects. Weather conditions at the time included light rain with a temperature of 28.8°C (84°F).
As of now, the situation remains calm, with no reports of aftershocks. Authorities continue to monitor the area for any further seismic activity.
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