A 6.4-magnitude and 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck Puerto Rico Tuesday morning, which followed the 5.8-magnitude earthquake that hit the island Monday morning. According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), “the magnitude 6.4 earthquake was widely felt” and “strong to very strong shaking occurred across parts of Southern Puerto Rico closest to the event and moderate shaking occurred across the rest of the island.” The epicenter was off the southern coast, southeast of the city Indios.
“Discover Puerto Rico is in contact with the Puerto Rico Tourism Company to learn more about potential impact to tourism following recent earthquakes. While damage is still being assessed, it does not appear that areas outside the southern region of the Island were impacted heavily, however, Governor [Wanda Vázquez Garced] has declared a state of emergency as a precaution," Discover Puerto Rico said in a statement provided to Luxury Travel Advisor. "Many establishments have lost power but are prepared and are running on generators. Of note, Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, the San Juan Cruise Port, the Ponce Cruise Port and Airport, the Puerto Rico Convention Center, and attractions and hotels in northern Puerto Rico, including areas around San Juan, are open. For those traveling to and from Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, plan for additional time. The U.S. Geological Service has advised that there is no tsunami threat to the Island at this time. For the latest information and travel updates, visit discoverpuertorico.com. We recommend that travelers currently in Puerto Rico or with upcoming travel plans contact their travel providers, hotels and local businesses to inquire about operations that have been impacted.”
Following Monday’s earthquake, there were reports of small landslides, power outages and severely damaged buildings, according to The Associated Press. It added that Puerto Rico has been experiencing several smaller earthquakes, ranging in magnitude from 4.7 to 5.1, since December 28.
Tuesday’s 6.4-magnitude quake resulted in power plants shutting down to protect themselves, cutting power throughout the island, although power is expected to be restored later Tuesday, according to The Associated Press. Puerto Rico’s main airport was operating as normal, using generator power. It adds that a tsunami alert was initially issued for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands but was later canceled.
Related Articles
Is it Safe to Travel to Australia? Latest Advice for Tourists
Palau Bans 'Toxic' Sun Cream as Tourism Takes its Toll on Island