PHILIPSBURG:--- At 11:13 am the largest earthquake measuring 5.2 magnitude shook St. Maarten/St. Martin sending residents into a frenzy. The earthquake on Christmas Eve Day is one of the largest earthquakes to hit the Leeward Islands. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the epicenter was located 22km NNE of Gustavia, St. Barthelemy. The earthquake lasted about 15 seconds, at first there was a shaking then came the loud noises causing residents to run out of their homes and churches. Many expressed fear as this is the first time such a strong earthquake has been felt. Fear especially knowing that most homes suffered damages from hurricane Irma. Even though this was the strongest earthquake in the region no damages have been reported.
