The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service has assured the public there is no tsunami threat to the country following a magnitude 7.1 earthquake off the coast of Venezuela on Wednesday evening.

In a Tsunami Information Statement issued at 6:45 p.m., the Meteorological Service said that, based on all available data, the earthquake does not pose a significant tsunami risk to Antigua and Barbuda.

According to preliminary information, the earthquake struck at 6:05 p.m. AST at a depth of 10 kilometres (6 miles). The epicentre was located at 10.5° North, 68.4° West , near the Venezuelan coastline.

While officials noted there is a very small possibility of tsunami waves affecting Caribbean coastlines closest to the epicentre, they said no action is required in Antigua and Barbuda.

The Meteorological Service encouraged residents to remain informed by following updates from official sources and reminded those living in coastal communities to review tsunami evacuation plans and familiarize themselves with designated safe areas.

Officials said this will be the only statement issued for the event unless additional information becomes available or conditions change.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: No Tsunami Threat to Antigua and Barbuda After 7.1 Magnitude Earthquake Near Venezuela.