A 5.4 magnitude earthquake rocked Jamaica at approximately 10:57 AM local time this morning.
According to USGS, affected countries included Jamaica, Haiti, the United States Minor Outlying Islands, and Cuba.
The epicenter of the quake was 4 kilometers from Hope Bay, Jamaica, with a depth of 10 km.
The earthquake has so far been reportedly felt in the Eastern and Central parishes of the island, specifically Kingston and St Andrew, Clarendon, St. Mary, St Catherine, St Thomas, Portland, St Elizabeth, and Manchester.
This follows a 4.3 magnitude earthquake that rocked the island in September.
Structural damage has been reported in some parts of Portland and Kingston, among other parishes.
The general consensus from Jamaicans on social media was that this was the strongest felt earthquake to hit the island in at least two decades.
From my mother give birth to meee 25 years ago! That was the strongest earthquake I’ve ever felt! Swore think God was coming
— Bestdatdidit (@drippingmelani8) October 30, 2023
View this post on Instagram
According to the Mayor of Kingston Delroy Williams, there has been damage to derelict buildings in downtown Kingston.
Derelict buildings downtown have been impacted by the earthquake. Currently assessing other areas affected downtown. pic.twitter.com/wD6xIYWy8r
— Delroy Williams (@MayorWilliamsJA) October 30, 2023
Several communities across the island, specifically those on the eastern side of the island, have reported damage. Structural damage has also been reported at the University of the West Indies in Kingston, the New Kingston Shopping Center, and other public buildings.
Statement from the Prime Minister
Following the earthquake, Prime Minister Andrew Holness addressed the nation.
“The damage assessment so far is that damage has been minor. Nevertheless, we’re taking all precautions. All the necessary protocols have been activated. Here at the office of the Prime Minister, the NWA [National Works Agency] will be doing an assessment to ensure the building is safe for cabinet to resume,” he said.
He urged all Jamaicans to remain calm, adding that the country may experience aftershocks.
“It is likely that after the initial shock, there are usually aftershocks so you want to be in a safe place … Again, remain calm, follow all the protocols regarding earthquakes and general safety,” the Prime Minister said.
The Prime Minister said that many Jamaicans across the island experienced a break in electricity and communication following the earthquake, most of which has been restored.
The airports remain open and there have been no reported deaths so far. Some schools and business places in the affected parishes, however, have suspended operations for the remainder of the day.
