North Atlantic Ocean: Magnitude-6.6 earthquake occurs to the north of the Lesser Antilles at around 16:28 July 10

Event

A magnitude-6.6 earthquake occurred in the North Atlantic Ocean to the north of the Lesser Antilles at around 16:28 July 10. The epicenter was about 277 km (172 miles) north-northeast of Codrington, Antigua and Barbuda. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and light shaking was probably felt in parts of the Lesser Antilles. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Aftershocks are likely over the coming days. While the US Tsunami Warning System did not immediately issue a tsunami warning, advisory, watch, or threat in connection with the temblor, it did caution that "there is a very small possibility of tsunami waves along coasts located nearest the epicenter." Officials may update their assessments over the coming hours.

Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible where shaking occurred.

Advice

Plan accordingly for aftershocks. Consider vacating multistory buildings if operating in affected areas until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Allow additional time for air and road travel, as aftershocks may prompt brief disruptions. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving in hilly areas in the affected region due to potential landslides.

Additionally, out of an abundance of caution, consider moving away from low-lying coastal areas until local authorities confirm that no local tsunami threat exists.