Jamaica rattled by more than 300 earthquakes so far in 2023

Throughout the year 2023, Jamaica has been shaken by an unusual surge in seismic activity, with over 300 earthquakes being documented between January and November. 

The Earthquake Unit at the University of the West Indies in Kingston has been recording these occurrences, shedding light on the unprecedented events.

It has noted 327 local earthquakes from January to November 2023.

Reports are that of the total number of recorded earthquakes, 12 of them were reported to the unit as felt. 

The biggest quake of the year

The most prominent event in this seismic activity occurred on October 30th when a powerful magnitude 5.6 earthquake rocked the island nation. 

This record-breaking seismic event produced a maximum intensity of VI on the Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale, categorizing it as a moderate earthquake.

Impact across eastern Jamaica

Situated approximately 10 kilometers south of Buff Bay, Portland, the epicenter of the October 30th earthquake left a profound mark on Jamaica’s eastern region. 

Communities in the vicinity were shaken to their core, experiencing power outages and varying degrees of structural damage.

 The aftermath of the 5.6 magnitude earthquake was further compounded by the emergence of dozens of aftershocks, adding to the anxiety and uncertainty in affected areas.

Read more on the earthquake:

• Over 30 students taken to hospital following Jamaica earthquake
• Aftershocks of anxiety: Jamaica reels from effects of earthquake

Videos circulating showcased the pandemonium: damaged stores, disrupted corporate areas, and the public seeking refuge in open spaces. Shoppers hastily abandoned their carts, and workers left their offices, all rushing toward safety, navigating through the chaos the tremors left in their wake.

In a surprising turn of events, the Earthquake Unit reported that the total number of earthquakes recorded in 2023 surpasses those documented in recent years.