5.4 Earthquake felt in the Leeward Islands. Photo Credit: DDM

According to a release from the Department of Disaster Management (DDM), the report indicated that the epicenter was located near 17.34 north latitude and -63.45 west longitude, or 309.45 KM East-Southeast of San Juan, Puerto Rico at a depth of 156.9 kilometers.

The DDM said it takes this time to remind the BVI Community that we live in a seismically active zone, which makes the Territory vulnerable to earthquakes.

The release said during an earthquake it is important to stay calm and if you are inside, stay there, move away from ceiling fans, glass windows and doors or anything that may fall.  Get under a desk or sturdy piece of furniture, cover your head and hold on. If outdoors, move into an open area away from trees, buildings or utility wires and poles.

During an earthquake, the release said the more you move, the more likely you are to be hurt, hence refrain from entering or exiting a building at the time of impact.

Persons can contact the DDM at 468-4200 for further information on this earthquake, the release said.