Dale Destin is urging Antigua and Barbuda to strengthen tsunami preparedness after Saturday’s strong earthquake. Moreover, he warned that the quake should serve as a serious reminder about the region’s seismic risks.

The earthquake struck around 10:50 a.m. local time on May 16. According to the United States Geological Survey, the quake measured 6.1 magnitude. However, the University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre recorded it at 6.4 magnitude.

The tremor was felt across the north-eastern Caribbean. In addition, it became one of the strongest earthquakes recorded near Antigua and Barbuda in recent years.

Although officials reported no deaths or major damage, many residents felt shaken by the event. Videos shared on social media showed goods falling from shelves as people rushed out of buildings.

Destin said the earthquake did not trigger a tsunami. However, he stressed that the country must not ignore the warning signs linked to major seismic activity.

He explained that Antigua and Barbuda sits within a tectonically active zone. As a result, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions remain common throughout the eastern Caribbean.

According to Destin, the Atlantic Plate continues pushing beneath the Caribbean Plate. Therefore, seismic events will remain part of life in the region.

In addition, he urged residents to learn the warning signs linked to tsunamis. He said prolonged ground shaking, sudden sea retreat, and strange ocean behaviour could signal danger.

People living near coastal areas should move inland or seek higher ground if those signs appear, Destin advised.

Furthermore, he called for stronger disaster preparedness efforts across Antigua and Barbuda. He believes public awareness and faster emergency responses could save lives during future events.

Destin described the recent earthquake as a “wake-up call” for the country. Therefore, he urged both officials and residents to take preparedness more seriously moving forward.

The eastern Caribbean frequently experiences seismic activity because of its location along major tectonic plate boundaries. Consequently, earthquakes are often felt across several islands at the same time.

Meanwhile, officials continue monitoring seismic conditions across the region following Saturday’s earthquake.