JOURNAL ARTICLE

Stranded coral boulders point to a medieval tsunami in the Caribbean: Study pinpoints likely date for a massive earthquake on the Puerto Rico Trench—and highlights an underappreciated regional hazard.

  • Published In: Sciencemag.org, 2025. P. N.PAG 1 of 3

  • Database: Applied Science & Technology Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Kornei, Katherine 3 of 3

Abstract

The article focuses on research that identifies a likely date for a significant earthquake in the Puerto Rico Trench, which may have triggered a tsunami that washed large coral boulders inland on Anegada, a Caribbean island. Researchers estimate that this event occurred between 1381 and 1391 C.E., using a technique that analyzes the radioactive decay of uranium in coral. The study highlights the Puerto Rico Trench as an underappreciated tsunami hazard, with potential devastating effects on local economies, particularly for low-lying islands like Anegada. The findings suggest that a magnitude 8 or greater earthquake could generate tsunami waves that reach Anegada within minutes, emphasizing the urgent need for awareness of this risk. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Sciencemag.org. 2025/10, pN.PAG
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Earth and Atmospheric Sciences
  • Publication Date:2025
  • Accession Number:188780200
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