The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) reported a magnitude 4.2 earthquake in the Dominican Republic near Valverde, Mao. earthquake occurred at the last minute on the night of Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at 23:59 local time, at a depth of 29.4 km. The exact magnitude, epicenter, and depth of the earthquake could be revised in the coming hours or minutes, as seismologists review the data and refine their calculations, or as other agencies issue their report.
According to preliminary seismic data, the earthquake should not have caused significant damage, but was probably felt by many people as a slight vibration in the epicenter area.
Weak tremors may have been felt in Villa Elisa (population 1,100) located 5 km from the epicenter, Santiago Rodríguez (population 16,400) 19 km away and Valverde (population 48,300) 24 km away.
Other cities or towns near the epicenter where the quake may have been felt as a very weak tremor include Esperanza (population 42,200) located 32 km from the epicenter, Villa Bisono (population 33,100) 44 km away, Río Grande (population 20,200) 55 km away, Santiago de los Caballeros (population 1,200,000) 66 km away, Tamboril (population 23,300) 73 km away, and La Vega (population 102,400) 92 km away.
Local authorities are assessing the situation to ensure the safety of residents. Seismic activity in the region has caused concern among residents in both countries, who felt the tremor and sought information about possible impacts.
Emergency services in Santiago Rodriguez and neighbouring regions are on standby to respond to any need for assistance. Meanwhile, earthquake monitoring teams continue to review data and provide updates on the situation.
So far, no injuries or serious damage have been reported, but residents in the area are advised to remain calm and heed the advice of local authorities.
