Recent Global Earthquake Activity: February 2023 Highlights

A 5.1-magnitude earthquake occurred in Morocco on February 10, with prior significant quakes reported in Vanuatu and the Cayman Islands. A tsunami warning was briefly issued for Mexico but was eventually lifted. This sequence of seismic events emphasizes the need for ongoing awareness of tectonic activities globally.

On February 10, a 5.1-magnitude earthquake occurred in Morocco, as reported by the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The earthquake was centered in Chefchaouen, at a depth of 10 kilometers (approximately 6.2 miles), with the USGS noting 420 reports from residents who felt the tremor at the time of the incident.

Simultaneously, a 5.9-magnitude earthquake struck Vanuatu, also on February 10. This earthquake was located in Port-Vila at a depth of 18 kilometers (approximately 11.9 miles).

This seismic activity followed a 7.6-magnitude earthquake in the Cayman Islands on February 8, centered in George Town at a depth of 10 kilometers (approximately 6.2 miles). Earlier, on February 7, the USGS recorded a 3.4-magnitude earthquake in Petrolia, California, at a similar depth.

On February 6, another earthquake in Petrolia measured 2.9 magnitude at a depth of 4.4 kilometers (approximately 2.7 miles). Additionally, on February 5, Alaska experienced a 4.3-magnitude earthquake located in Sustina at a depth of 5.4 kilometers (approximately 3.4 miles).

A tsunami warning was initially issued for the Mexican coastline due to these earthquakes but was lifted within two hours. The National Weather Service Warning Center advised, “With the latest modeling and information, the tsunami threat has passed. There are no alerts posted for the United States or International Partners. The tsunami threat has passed. Unusual currents may be noticed in some areas. Exercise normal caution.”

These events illustrate a series of significant seismic activities globally, affecting regions such as Morocco, Vanuatu, the Cayman Islands, and California, underscoring the volatile nature of tectonic movements in these areas.

In summary, a series of notable earthquakes have been reported across various global locations in February, including a 5.1-magnitude earthquake in Morocco and significant tremors in Vanuatu and the Cayman Islands. A tsunami warning was momentarily issued for Mexico but later rescinded. The observations highlight the importance of monitoring seismic activities as part of natural disaster preparedness.

Original Source: 1075theriver.iheart.com