A magnitude 5.6 earthquake was recorded on Friday, January 2, 2026, sending tremors across several territories in the Eastern Caribbean, according to preliminary data from the Seismic Research Centre.
The quake struck at approximately 5:48 p.m., with its epicentre located about 78 kilometres from Saint-Joseph, Martinique.
Among the countries and territories affected were Saint Lucia, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Antigua and Barbuda, as well as Venezuela.
At this time, no injuries or damage have been reported, and authorities continue to monitor the situation. Seismologists note that earthquakes of this magnitude are not uncommon along the region’s active tectonic zones, though they can be widely felt due to the interconnected island chain.
Residents are being reminded to remain alert and to follow guidance from the National Emergency Management Agency. Saint Lucia Daily Post will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
