Magnitude 3.45 quake felt in BVI

There was an earthquake in the British Virgin Islands around 3:47 this morning, June 16.

According to the Puerto Rico Seismic Network, an earthquake measuring a magnitude of 3.45 occurred at latitude 18.90, longitude 64.46, or 22.64 kilometres north west of Anegada at a depth of five kilometres.

No tsunami watches or warnings were issued, said the local Department of Disaster Management (DDM), which has used the opportunity to again remind the public that the BVI is in a seismically active zone.

As such, the territory is vulnerable to earthquakes.

“During an earthquake, it is important to stay calm. If you are inside, stay there. Move away from ceiling fans, glass windows and doors, or anything that may fall. Get under a desk or sturdy piece of furniture, cover your head, and hold on.”

“If outdoors, move into an open area away from trees, building, or utility wires and poles. During an earthquake, the more you move, the more likely you are to be hurt. So, refrain from entering or exiting a building at the time of the impact,” added the DDM.