President Donald Trump approved a state of emergency declaration for Puerto Rico on Tuesday. This comes after two destructive earthquakes hit the same area two days in a row.
On Monday, a 5.8 magnitude earthquake hit the southwestern part of Puerto Rico and then on Tuesday, a 6.4 magnitude earthquake followed, killing one and injuring several others. According to the United States Geological Survey, more than 500 earthquakes – larger than a 2.0 magnitude – have hit the territory since Dec. 28.
Puerto Rico's governor, Wanda Vázquez, requested an emergency declaration from FEMA on Tuesday. On Wednesday, she tweeted, thanking President Donald Trump and FEMA for quickly responding to Puerto Rico's needs.
FEMA said it will be providing direct federal assistance to cover 75% of Puerto Rico's costs, which will be distributed throughout all 78 municipalities.
There are no tsunami warnings, but USGS says more aftershocks are likely to continue after Tuesday's earthquake which could cause more damage to the island.
Additional reporting by Newsy affiliate CNN.
