Moderate Earthquake Recorded Near Antigua and Barbuda
A magnitude 4.0 earthquake struck northeast of Codrington, Antigua and Barbuda, early Monday, December 9, 2024, at 12:47 am local time. The quake, confirmed by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) and was felt lightly near the epicenter, with no reports of damage or injuries.
The earthquake’s epicenter was located approximately 83 kilometers (53 miles) northeast of Codrington, Barbuda. Shaking intensity near the epicenter was classified as light (IV on the Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale), while areas farther from the epicenter, such as St. John’s in Antigua, experienced very weak shaking (II).
Nearby locations in the region, including All Saints in Antigua, Basseterre in St. Kitts, and Basse-Terre in Guadeloupe, reported no noticeable effects from the quake.
Initial data reported a depth of 16.3 kilometers, but this was later revised to 10 kilometers. The epicenter location was also adjusted by 61 kilometers northeast. The earthquake released an estimated seismic energy equivalent to 15.1 tons of TNT.
Seismic data from the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) and other institutions corroborated the USGS findings, with minor variations in depth and magnitude.
The earthquake occurred in a seismically active region near the Caribbean Plate, approximately 181 kilometers (112 miles) from Nevis Peak, the nearest volcano. Clear skies and calm weather at the time of the quake helped ensure no additional complications arose.
As of now, no residents in the region have reported feeling the earthquake. Authorities have not issued any warnings, and no aftershocks have been detected.
While this earthquake caused no impact, residents are reminded to stay informed about seismic activity in the region. Preparedness measures, such as securing loose items and knowing evacuation routes, are encouraged.
The USGS and regional seismic agencies continue to monitor for aftershocks or further activity.
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