Bridgetown, Barbados, September 29, 2006 (CDERA) - The Seismic Research Unit of the University of Trinidad & Tobago, reported an earthquake measuring 5.5 on the Richter Scale occurred near the north coast of Trinidad on September 29, 2006 at 9.08 am.

The preliminary location for the event is 10.83°N 61.41°W  with a focal depth of 40km. 

The Earthquake has been reportedly felt through out Trinidad and Tobago including  in Port of Spain, Chaguanas, St. Augustine, Princes Town, Point Fortin and Westmoorings, Marabella and Tobago.

The event was also reportedly felt in Grenada and more strongly in the Grenadine islands of Canouan and Union Island of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The Impact
Trindad and Tobago

The Office of Disaster Preparedness & Management (ODPM) when contacted reported the following;

1. Some minor structural damage reported – cracks in walls of buildings in Port-of-Spain
2. Disruption of Electricity – Tobago was reportedly out of power
3. Water supply out in the North & East of Trinidad due to power outage
4. No injuries reported or damage to health facilities

Grenada
The National Disaster management Agency reported that they were receiving calls form residents who felt the earthquake.

No reports of injuries or damage was received.

St.Vincent and the Grenadines
The National Emergency Management Office also reported receiving calls from residents who had felt the earth quake. The Quake was reportedly felt very strongly in Canouan and Union Island.

The Response
Trinidad and Tobago
 
The ODPM has activated the National Response Mechanism and the National Emergency Operations Center. Assessment Teams have been deployed in the field to gather data on damage.

The Prime Minister and Minister with responsibility for ODPM have been apprised of the situation.

The NEOC has not had any request for emergency response assistance and no injuries have been reported. However the emergency services are on standby to respond and assist residents as necessary.

Coordinating Mechanism
CDERA has been in contact with the National Disaster Coordinators of the three affected Participating States to ascertain the extent of impact of the earthquake and the actions taken.

Further SITREPS will be issued as updated information becomes available.

CDERA Contact
246 425 0386

Note: Persons who have felt the earthquake may report this to the SRU through their website at http://www.uwiseismic.com .