May 8, 2023 - An earthquake with a magnitude of 4.3 struck Jamaica at approximately 4:55 PM on May 8, 2023. The epicenter of the earthquake was located 15 kilometers southwest of the town of May Pen, in the central part of the island.
The earthquake was felt in several areas across the island, including Kingston, the capital city. There have been no reports of damage or injuries as of yet.
The earthquake was classified as a shallow earthquake, with a depth of 10 kilometers. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), shallow earthquakes are more likely to cause damage, particularly to buildings and infrastructure.
The Jamaican government has issued a statement advising residents to remain calm and to follow the guidance of emergency responders. The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) is monitoring the situation and has activated its emergency response protocols.
Earthquakes are not uncommon in Jamaica, which sits on the boundary of two tectonic plates. The country experiences several earthquakes each year, with magnitudes ranging from 2.0 to 7.0.
References
United States Geological Survey. (2023, May 8). M 4.3 - 15 km SW of May Pen, Jamaica. Retrieved from https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/us7000g2fl/executive
Jamaica Observer. (2023, May 8). Earthquake rocks Jamaica. Retrieved from https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Earthquake_rocks_Jamaica?profile=1228
Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management. (2023, May 8). ODPEM Monitoring Earthquake Situation. Retrieved from https://www.odpem.org.jm/odpem-monitoring-earthquake-situation/