BVI News

Earthquake felt in BVI

A section of Tortola. (BVI News photo)

A 4.7 magnitude earthquake shook sections of the British Virgin Islands Friday afternoon, April 6.

Initial readings from the Puerto Rico Seismic Network are that the earthquake had a depth of 40.9 kilometres.

The epicentre was located 35.99 kilometres west of Anegada, and 41.67 kilometres north of Road Town (latitude 18.7 and longitude -64.67).

The earthquake happened around 5:21pm.

What to do during an earthquake

Residents are advised to remain calm during an earthquake.

Persons who are are indoors during a tremor are advised to stay there and move away from objects that may fall such as ceiling fans, glass windows and doors.

Experts advise that persons indoors get under a desk or sturdy piece of furniture, cover their head and hold on.  If outdoors, persons are advised to move into an open area away from trees, building, or utility wires and poles.

Info-graphic from the Puerto Rico Seismic Network after the tremor on April 6, 2018.

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25 Comments

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  1. Yes says:

    It felt like driving these roads

  2. Shares says:

    That was minor? I was in my house and felt the whole house shaking!

  3. VG Resident says:

    Wow! that shook for a long time!

  4. Whoa! says:

    It was pretty strong in McNamara — I thought it had to be at least a 6! Compared to others I’ve felt, it was strong, it was long, and it was loud.

  5. SMH says:

    IT WAS A 5.2

  6. Anegada says:

    Here in Anegada it wasn’t that bad. A tremor. I heard it more than felt it.

  7. Guest says:

    It was minor and Tortola people almost s*** themselves. These people are so on edge that the next storm not hurricane, storm will have them freaking out……

  8. Favour says:

    That earthquake reminded me of that day of Sept 6. It was long, load rumbling and the shaking was intense. DDM reading says 5.2 but to me it felt like a 7 and I have experienced an earthquake rating at 7. May God have mercy on us all.

  9. Observer says:

    Let’s all pray for these beautiful Virgin Islands and try our best to live better with each other. Life is so fragile.

  10. Get Ready! says:

    I have dreamed that there is one coming. It will be big news in the Caribbean.

    People do not want to repent. They are set in their ways. The gambling, the partying, hatred for one another….you name it.

    God wants us to turn!

    2 Chronicles 7:14
    If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

  11. Peter says:

    Warning sign it reminds me of the August flood. Cover us Oh lord.

  12. Theo says:

    Everyone just use this as a warning to come up with a plan in case of such disaster. I know we can’t stop natural disasters, but we can minimize them if we make sure every man, woman and child is familiar with escape options, have an idea what is the best places to seek cover or do in such an instance. Simple things like keeping some shoes nearby your bed are important so you can more effectively move about or help others without risking injury to your feet.

    Don’t keep hazards like gas bottles and items that may easily tip over nearby, make sure things are more secure. Have your valuables in a safe box because if Irmaggedon taught us anything it’s that in the BVI you’re helped more if you help yourself.

    Be safe everyone and keep each other safe 🙂

  13. Frett says:

    Something BIg is on it”s way…. You all think Irma was bad. Watch out. Some of us really need some licks.

  14. Devon says:

    Not a scratch on Irma !

  15. BitterPill says:

    USGS and my earthquake app both record the quake as a 4.7

    Regardless, these tremors are getting stronger. Everything is only a matter of time.

  16. Me says:

    4.9??? So what is it really?

    • No evidence says:

      The closer the station the more accuare the reading. Usually there is a preliminary reading then a final reading. Stick to the Puerto Rico Seismic Network they have instruments in the Territory and are the official agency to issue information on earthquakes for BVI through DDM.

  17. From Colombia ???????? but Residing as a British Citizen, in London, I was born in a sísmic area of the Andes mountains
    I simpatice with what you are going through. My prayers are with you.

  18. Rubber Duck says:

    Shift happens.

  19. Only Tola! says:

    Between the hurricanes, zombies killing and now the quake! Too much wickedness in a very small place! Why can’t y’all be like the sister islands and chill the f&@k out?

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