On the morning of August 16, 2024, at approximately 8:01 am, a magnitude 5.3 earthquake rattled Jamaica. The epicenter of the quake was located about 6 kilometers northeast of Golden Spring, St. Andrew, and was felt across several parishes including Kingston, St. Andrew, St. Catherine, St. James, Manchester, St. Mary, and St. Thomas. The tremor shook homes and sent many residents scrambling to confirm the event online, illustrating the immediate confusion and fear that often follows such incidents.
Why is Jamaica Prone to Earthquakes? Jamaica's susceptibility to earthquakes stems from its geographical position near the northern edge of the Caribbean Plate, which moves east-northeast relative to the North American Plate. This tectonic activity, combined with the island's geological features, places Jamaica within a seismic zone where the risk of earthquakes is significant. Historical records indicate that Jamaica has experienced earthquakes since the late 1600s, with varying degrees of …
