There were no reports of damage arising from this morning’s magnitude 5.6 earthquake which affected Barbados.
This is according to the Director of the Department of Emergency Management (DEM), Kerry Hinds.
Ms. Hinds stated that the quake which occurred at approximately 11.26 a.m. local time, occurred some 29 kilometres south west of Barbados at a depth of 25.8 kms was reportedly felt island-wide. It was followed later in the day by a 3.1 magnitude aftershock.
The Director said that the events served as a reminder to persons on the island to be prepared as no one knew when such an event would occur.
According to the DEM, in the event of an earthquake, the public is reminded of the Drop, Cover and Hold on practice. Individuals should remain indoors if the building they are in is sturdy, and to proceed outside with caution after it the tremor has stopped. It is strongly advised that persons should not run outside in an earthquake.
Persons may follow the DEM, Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS) and The University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre (uwiseismic) websites and social media pages for any updates, as well as credible media sources.