The tsunami threat to Trinidad and Tobago has officially passed. This comes after a powerful 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Venezuela on Wednesday evening. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) has reported that the quake occurred at 6:04 p.m. AST and was 10 kilometres deep. Its epicentre was approximately 750 kilometres from Trinidad and Tobago.
After a thorough review of all available seismic data, authorities have determined that there is no longer any tsunami threat to Trinidad and Tobago or the surrounding region. This is the final update for the event unless new information emerges. Residents have been advised to remain vigilant and exercise regular caution near coastal areas, but no further protective action is required at this time.
Officials have reminded the public that while destructive tsunamis are relatively rare in the Caribbean, they are still a potential hazard. Large earthquakes, underwater landslides, and volcanic activity, including the submarine volcano Kick-’em-Jenny, are all capable of generating tsunamis in the region. Emergency authorities continue to urge people to move immediately to higher ground if they experience strong or prolonged ground shaking near the coast.
The Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service and the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management remain the official agencies for issuing national alerts. The PTWC issued three bulletins during the event, and the final bulletin confirmed that the tsunami threat had passed. Authorities continue to encourage the public to rely on official information from national disaster management agencies during seismic and tsunami events.
