Southwestern Florida residents reported feeling an earthquake Monday (June 8) that was centered in the Gulf of Mexico just west of Cuba. The United States Geological Survey confirmed the 6.1 magnitude earthquake struck the southern Gulf region earlier today.
Officials from the USGS stated there is no tsunami threat following the seismic event. No damage has been reported at this time.
Social media posts indicate people felt the earthquake as far north as Central Florida. A seismograph located near Disney World property has previously detected earthquakes in this region, though detection does not always mean the tremors were felt by residents.
The Caribbean region and Cuba have experienced increased seismic activity over recent years. The Gulf of Mexico has seen previous earthquakes, with the largest recorded at 5.9 magnitude occurring in September 2006.
Residents who felt the earthquake reported vibrations lasting several seconds. The USGS continues to monitor the area for aftershocks, which are common following earthquakes of this magnitude.
Officials encourage residents to report their experiences through the USGS ‘Did You Feel It?’ system, which helps scientists better understand the reach and impact of seismic events.
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