Magnitude 5.7 Earthquake Jolts Martinique; No Damage Reported
A magnitude 5.7 earthquake struck off the coast of Martinique on Friday, January 2, in the evening. The seismic event was reported by the Volcanological and Seismological Observatory of Martinique (OVSM-IPGP). Its epicenter was located in the Atlantic Ocean, 59 kilometers northeast of Trinité, at a depth of 32 kilometers.
Details of the Earthquake
The earthquake occurred at 5:48 PM local time (10:48 PM Paris time) and was widely felt across the island. Residents shared their experiences on social media and local media outlets.
- Magnitude: 5.7
- Depth: 32 kilometers
- Epicenter: 59 kilometers northeast of Trinité
- Time: 5:48 PM (local time)
Expert Analysis
Jérôme Vergne, director of OVSM-IPGP, acknowledged the quake’s significance. He noted its closeness and strength, explaining that it occurred near the boundary between the North American Plate and the Caribbean Plate. These tectonic plates move towards each other at a rate of approximately 2 centimeters per year.
No Damage Reported
Despite the earthquake’s intensity, local emergency services reported no calls for assistance related to the event. The Territorial Fire and Rescue Service confirmed the lack of emergencies connected to the quake.
Previous Earthquakes
This earthquake follows a magnitude 6.5 quake that affected Martinique and Guadeloupe in October. These regions are particularly vulnerable to seismic activity, as warned by experts.
Public Response
According to the French Central Seismological Bureau, tremors from the earthquake were also felt in Guadeloupe. The regional community remains alert, given the historical seismic risks in the area.
