No need for alarm or panic says Herbert
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - CARL HERBERT, National Disaster Coordinator attached to the National Disaster Management Agency (NEMA) on St. Kitts, stated that eight earthquakes had taken place yesterday (May 16) and noted that while there is no need for alarm, -the situation is being monitored.
Speaking with this publication earlier today, Herbert explained that this “ongoing increased earthquake activity” is taking place “to the northeast of Antigua and Barbuda”.
He said the quakes - which began sometime after 7:00 yesterday morning - range in intensity from 3.0 to 5.0.
“There were at least eight quakes yesterday, some which may have been felt, others may not have been felt, but because of instrumentation they have been recorded.”
The National Disaster Coordinator said that the disaster management agencies on both St. Kitts and Nevis are monitoring the situation.
“NEMA and the Nevis Disaster Management Department are monitoring the situation along with neighbouring countries with the seismic research unit in Trinidad and Tobago at the University of the West Indies. They are the focal point for seismic activity in the English-speaking Eastern Caribbean.”
He said no tsunami alert has been given and although there is no need for panic or alarm, “we found it necessary just to alert the public in the event this information is heard already elsewhere”.
The public has been reminded of the measures that should be taken in the event of an earthquake.
“Also, we want to remind the public to do the drop, cover and hold - if persons are in a position to do so - should there be a strong quake. If not, they should stand in the archway or the doorway. And if you are driving and there is a strong quake, stop, park your vehicle and wait until the shaking has stopped.”
Herbert said people should pay attention to the local media for any update in the event that they become necessary.
“We want to encourage the public to continue their daily activities as there is no need for alarm or concern. And should the need arise, we will give the public additional or updated information.”
