A significant magnitude 5.7 earthquake struck the North Atlantic Ocean, approximately 64 kilometers northeast of Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, at 02:45 GMT on June 24, 2025. The epicenter was located at coordinates (19.092, -68.1143) with a depth of 18.193 kilometers 1 2.
Intensity of the Earthquake
The telluric movement was felt intensely by residents in various locations in the Eastern region of the Dominican Republic. Although no material damage or casualties have been reported, local authorities and civil protection agencies remain vigilant for any potential aftershocks or related seismic events 2.
Geological Context
Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, including the Dominican Republic, lie at the boundary between the Caribbean and North American tectonic plates. This region is highly prone to earthquakes due to the subduction of the North American plate beneath the Caribbean plate and the presence of numerous strike-slip faults 3.
Emergency Response and Humanitarian Challenges
Local authorities are closely monitoring the situation, ensuring that necessary measures are in place to address any potential consequences of the earthquake. The U.S. Consular Agency in Punta Cana has also advised U.S. citizens to exercise caution and stay informed about any updates from local authorities 4.
Infrastructure and Climate Resilience
The Dominican Republic, like many Caribbean nations, is vulnerable to natural disasters including earthquakes, rising sea levels, and extreme storms. The country is working to build climate resilience by investing in infrastructure that can withstand these challenges. However, climate finance remains a significant challenge for Caribbean nations, which often struggle with heavy debt burdens 5.