Five earthquakes felt in St. Vincent today (Thursday)

The National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) on Thursday said there was no threat of a tsunami and no reports of damage or injury were received after five earthquakes were felt in St. Vincent within a five-hour period.

The tremors were felt at 7:01 a.m., 11:16 a.m., 11:29 a.m., 11:36 a.m. and 12:23 p.m.

Preliminary reports from the Seismic Research Centre of the University of the West Indies, St Augustine, Trinidad, stated that at 7:01 a.m., an earthquake was generated 125 kilometres North East of Barbados at a depth of 10 kilometres. It measured 5.7 on the magnitude scale.

At 11:16 a.m., an earthquake was generated 125 kilometres northeast of Barbados at a depth of 10 kilometres. It measured 6.4 on the magnitude scale.

At 11:29 a.m., an earthquake was generated 108.0 kilometres northeast of Barbados at a depth of 10 kilometres. It measured 4.1 on the magnitude scale.

At 11:36 a.m., an earthquake was generated 140.0 kilometres northeast of Barbados at a depth of 10 kilometres. It measured 5.3 on the magnitude scale.

At 12:23 p.m., an earthquake was generated 98.0 kilometres north northeast of Barbados at a depth of 10 kilometres. It measured 3.8 on the magnitude scale.

The earthquakes were reported felt in various places on St Vincent, in Barbados, in St Lucia and in Trinidad.

NEMO says the following are measures that can be taken to protect lives and increase chances of survival during an earthquake:

• If inside Drop, Cover and Hold on to a sturdy structure
• If outside stay in an open space
• If no sturdy cover is available Drop, Cover and Hold your head to protect it
• Remain in place until the shaking stops, wait for aftershocks
• Stay away from doors and windows
• Stay away from falling objects
• If you are driving, stop in an open area and stay inside the vehicle
• After an earthquake it is important to do the following:
• Check for injuries to yourself and persons around you
• Check for damage to your property
• Only use your cell phone if there is an emergency
• Do not move persons who are seriously injured unless the area is unsafe

Earthquake Preparedness information can also be obtained at NEMO headquarters at Old Montrose.

NEMO can be reached at telephone number 784-456-2975, ext. 550 or e-mail [email protected]