Haiti: Earthquake hits off northern Haiti October 6

Event

The US Geological Survey (USGS) reported a 5.9-magnitude earthquake off the northern coast of Haiti around 20:11 (local time) on Saturday, October 7. The earthquake was shallow, around 15 km (9.3 mi) deep and located about 20 km (12.5 mi) west-northwest of Port-de-Paix (Nord Ouest department). The tremor was felt across northern Haiti, including Cap-Haitien, and initial reports indicate some damage to houses. No casualties were immediately reported. Further aftershocks are possible in the coming hours and days.

Context

Earthquakes are common in Haiti. Haiti sits along the Enriquillo-Plantain Garden fault zone, consisting of two fault lines in the north and south of the country. Haiti is still recovering from a 2010 7.0-magnitude earthquake.

Advice

Individuals present in the impacted region are advised to monitor the situation, be prepared for further aftershocks, adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities, and not to cross a roadblock without permission. Individuals elsewhere in Indonesia are advised to defer all travel to the affected areas until further notice.

During an earthquake, individuals are advised to protect themselves as much as possible from falling debris if indoors (e.g. under a table), to move away from windows and exterior walls, and do not attempt to leave the building unless there is an immediate danger. If outdoors, move away from any tall structures, such as buildings, utility wires, and streetlights.