An earthquake with a magnitude of 7.7 occurred in the Cayman Islands region at 2:10 pm. Based on available data, the tsunami threat from this earthquake has now passed and there is no further threat.
A preliminary damage assessment is now underway and it has been confirmed that several sinkholes have opened up and at least one property has been structurally damaged, but there have been no confirmed reports of injuries to persons in the Cayman Islands.
In the event of aftershocks persons who inside buildings should duck, cover and hold until shaking stops. If outside move away from buildings, trees and anything that could fall from above. Shortly after 4 pm local time a 4.7 M aftershock occurred and was widely felt by residents.
Following the earthquake which occurred shortly after 2 pm today, Hazard Management is advising the following:
The Red Cross Shelter will open at 6:30 pm
The Aston Rutty Shelter in Cayman Brac is open
Government schools will remain closed until full assessments have been done to ensure structural integrity.
Residents are encouraged to avoid being on the roads as NRA will be conducting assessments.
Water Authority is asking residents to report broken pipes or service interruptions to their emergency number 946-4357
PLEASE VISIT WWW.CAYMANPREPARED.KY FOR UPDATES AND FOLLOW @CAYMANHAZAARD FACEBOOK PAGE FOR MORE UPDATES