On the 6th April 2018 at 5:21pm according to the Puerto Rico Seismic Network, an earthquake measuring a magnitude of 4.7 with an intensity of 4 occurred in the vicinity of the Virgin Islands.
Intensity 4 on the Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale means such earthquakes are generally noticed indoors, but not outside, as a moderate vibration or jolt. Light sleepers may be awakened. Walls may creak, and glassware, crockery, doors or windows rattle.
The epicenter was located at latitude 18.70, longitude 64.67 or approximately 19.7 miles North of Road Town, Tortola, BVI at a depth of 25 miles. No tsunami watches, advisories or warnings were issued for the VI from this event.
The Department of Disaster Management (DDM) takes this time to remind the BVI community that we live in a seismically active zone, which makes the Territory 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.
