7.6 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes the Caribbean, Reaches Mexico’s Shores

A Sudden Shake: Earthquake Rattles the Caribbean

On Saturday, February 8, 2025, a powerful 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck the Caribbean Sea, sending shockwaves through the region. The epicenter was located approximately 208 kilometers south-southwest of George Town, the capital of the Cayman Islands, at a depth of 10 kilometers.

The earthquake, which occurred at 6:30 PM local time, prompted tsunami warnings across multiple nations, including Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Honduras, and Cuba. Residents in coastal regions were urged to evacuate to higher ground. However, these warnings were lifted shortly after seismic data confirmed no significant tsunami threat.

Quintana Roo Feels the Tremors: Emergency Protocols Activated

Although the epicenter was far from Mexican territory, the earthquake was felt in parts of Quintana Roo, prompting Governor Mara Lezama to activate Civil Protection protocols in 11 municipalities.

«We have activated Civil Protection protocols in coordination with local authorities after the earthquake near Honduras, which was felt in some parts of our state,» Lezama announced via social media.

Despite the tremors, authorities reported no major damage or structural collapses. Emergency teams were dispatched to assess potential risks in coastal towns such as Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Chetumal.

Mexican Navy Confirms No Tsunami Threat

Shortly after the earthquake, Mexico’s Navy Tsunami Warning Center (CAT-SEMAR) released a statement confirming that no tsunami threat existed for Mexican shores.

While minor sea level fluctuations were expected near the earthquake’s epicenter, these posed no danger to the general population in Mexico. However, strong currents might be present near Caribbean ports, leading officials to advise caution for vessels and beachgoers.

Understanding the Cause: A Tectonic Collision

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake was triggered by a strike-slip fault movement along the boundary of the North American and Caribbean tectonic plates.

The region is known for frequent seismic activity, with past earthquakes—such as the 7.7 magnitude quake in January 2020—causing tremors felt as far as Mexico and the United States. Fortunately, due to the remote location of the epicenter, no significant infrastructure damage or casualties have been reported.

What Comes Next? Monitoring Aftershocks and Safety Measures

Seismologists warn that aftershocks could follow in the coming days, though their intensity is expected to decrease. Authorities in Mexico, the Cayman Islands, and the Caribbean will continue monitoring seismic activity to ensure public safety.

Residents and tourists in coastal regions are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and to follow emergency preparedness guidelines in case of future seismic events.