‘Barbados is not immune to earthquakes’

Barbados is not immune to the devastating effects of an earthquake. 

 

This comes from a Seismologist at the University of the West Indies (UWI), St. Augustine Campus, Dr. Joan Latchman, who recently delivered a presentation on ‘Earthquakes and Tsunamis 

in the Caribbean: 50 Years versus 500 Years’, at the Barbados Public Workers’ Co-operative Credit Union Limited (BPWCCUL).

 

The Seismologist explained, that while the magnitude of earthquakes for this area is “relatively low” compared with the Leeward Islands and Trinidad and Tobago, the myth that earthquakes with serious damage do not affect this island no longer exist.

 

“There are more than 500 earthquakes in the defined Barbados seismic zone. Thirteen was the annual average number of events greater than the magnitude 2.5 that occurs in this specified area. 

 

“This number was relatively low in comparison to areas in the Northern Leewards and the Trinidad and Tobago area. The perception that earthquakes with serious effects do not affect Barbados is no longer present.”

 

She stated that some of the damage that can be caused by this system include destruction to buildings, roads, bridges and electrical lines; along with fires, tsunamis, 

liquefaction and landslides or rock slides.

 

Dr. Latchman stated that one of the ways in which countries can help themselves is to have seismic experts conduct research and monitor earthquake patterns. Educating the general public on what to do and what not to do during an earthquake is also essential.

 

She said that one of the important rules to bear in mind is that when the actual earthquake activity is taking place, remain where you are. In other words, if you are inside – remain inside, and if you are already outside – then remain there.

 

“Drop, cover and hold on. 

 

“Do not use elevators or stairs. Stay away from glass buildings, electricity poles and bridges. If in a vehicle, do not stop on or under a bridge.”

 

The seismologist added that after an earthquake, persons must be aware of any aftershocks that are likely to occur among other things.

 

“After an earthquake, be prepared for the aftershocks. Listen to instructions from an appropriate authority. Check for broken gas lines and fires. 

 

“Do not light a match or turn on a light switch. Check utilities and switch them off if necessary. Check your building for 

serious damage and evacuate if the building seems likely to collapse.”