Magnitude 7.7 earthquake strikes between Cuba & Jamaica; tsunami warning issued

A powerful magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck south of Cuba and northwest of Jamaica on Tuesday (Jan. 28), according to the U.S. Geological Survey. 

The quake happened 139 kilometres northwest of Montego Bay, Jamaica, and 140 kilometres west-southwest of Niquero, Cuba, striking at around 2:10 p.m. 

So far there have been no immediate reports of damage or injuries.

Reports say a tsunami warning is being issued for those two islands as well as the Cayman Islands.

The USGS reports that waves of up to one metre-high may be present in coastal areas and the Cayman Islands has urged people to evacuate away from coastal areas and to higher ground.

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