| Date | Magnitude | Location | Depth |
|---|---|---|---|
| July 16, 2024 | 3.7 | 10 km south of Hope Bay, Portland | 10 km |
| June 18, 2024 | 4.0 | Maggotty, St. Elizabeth | 10 km |
| May 2, 2024 | 4.0 | Buff Bay, Portland | 10 km |
| November 28, 2023 | 3.8 | Hope Bay, Portland | 14 km |
| October 30, 2023 | 5.4 | Hope Bay, Portland | 10 km |
Introduction
Kingston, Jamaica, has experienced a moderate level of seismic activity, with several earthquakes reported in recent years. This article provides an overview of the recent earthquakes in Kingston, Jamaica, including their magnitudes, locations, and depths.
Recent Earthquakes
- July 16, 2024: A minor earthquake with a magnitude of 3.7 was felt in Kingston and St Andrew, and St Catherine on Tuesday evening. The quake occurred around 5:46 pm and was located approximately 10 kilometres south of Hope Bay in Portland.
- June 18, 2024: A 4.0 magnitude earthquake occurred in Maggotty, St. Elizabeth, with a depth of 10 km.
- May 2, 2024: A 4.0 magnitude earthquake was reported in Buff Bay, Portland, with a depth of 10 km.
- November 28, 2023: A 3.8 magnitude earthquake occurred in Hope Bay, Portland, with a depth of 14 km.
- October 30, 2023: A 5.4 magnitude earthquake was reported in Hope Bay, Portland, with a depth of 10 km.
Historical Earthquakes
- 1907: The Kingston earthquake, which occurred on January 14, 1907, was one of the strongest earthquakes on record in the Caribbean, with a magnitude of 7.7.
- 2020: A 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck about 70 miles northwest of Montego Bay, Jamaica, causing minor shaking as far north as Florida and more moderate shaking in Jamaica.
Preparedness and Response
The Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) has been staging a series of earthquake simulations to increase preparedness and emergency response capabilities among various stakeholders. Additionally, the Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF) has provided $83 million worth of equipment to the Earthquake Unit at the University of West Indies (UWI), Mona, to strengthen its ability to monitor and respond to seismic events.
Conclusion
Kingston, Jamaica, continues to experience seismic activity, with recent earthquakes ranging from 3.7 to 5.4 in magnitude. It is essential for residents and authorities to remain prepared and vigilant in the face of these natural events.
