A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 6.8 struck off the eastern coast of Guadeloupe early on Monday morning, according to seismic data from Colombia’s Geological Survey. The earthquake occurred at 7:38 a.m. local time on October 27 (12:38 UTC), with its epicenter located at 16.54°N and -59.49°W in the eastern Caribbean Sea.
The quake was classified as shallow, with a depth of less than 30 kilometers, which means it was close to the Earth’s surface and therefore more likely to be strongly felt in nearby regions. Earthquakes of this magnitude, which fall within the range of 6.1 to 6.9, are capable of causing significant structural damage within 100 kilometers of the epicenter, particularly in areas with vulnerable construction.
Residents in Guadeloupe and neighboring islands, including Dominica, Antigua and Barbuda, and Martinique, reported light to moderate shaking. Some precautionary building evacuations took place shortly after the tremor, although daily activities resumed soon after. Local emergency agencies continue to assess the situation, but at the time of reporting, there have been no immediate reports of injuries or major property damage.
No tsunami warning has been issued following the earthquake, and authorities do not currently consider a tsunami threat likely. However, officials recommend that residents remain alert for possible aftershocks and avoid unstable coastal areas or damaged structures until inspections are complete. Civil protection services across the region are maintaining active monitoring, as the Lesser Antilles is a known area of high seismic activity due to tectonic movements along the Caribbean and North American Plate boundary.
Seismologists are now examining whether this earthquake is linked to recent tectonic stress within the Lesser Antilles Subduction Zone. More information is expected as monitoring agencies continue their analysis and local authorities release official updates.
