Port Royal: A Seismic Catastrophe Unveils Secrets of the Sunken City
Port Royal: Sunken City’s Earthquake Secrets
In 1692, Port Royal, Jamaica, suffered a catastrophic earthquake. This seismic event, estimated at 7.5 on the Richter scale, devastated the coastal city.
The Devastating Earthquake of June 7th, 1692
The June 7th earthquake caused widespread destruction, submerging significant portions of Port Royal beneath the Caribbean Sea. A subsequent tsunami further compounded the devastation.
Liquefaction and Collapse
Liquefaction of the underlying sandy soil led to the collapse and subsidence of numerous buildings and infrastructure. It’s estimated that approximately two-thirds of the city was lost.
The Legacy of Port Royal
The 1692 earthquake serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of understanding seismic activity in vulnerable areas. The submerged city continues to yield historical insights, revealing secrets of a once-thriving port.
About The Author
