This July 16, 2014, photo, shows an aerial view of cruise ships docked at the Old San Juan pier in Puerto Rico.
San Juan:
The US government has pledged nearly $350,000 to help scientists in Puerto Rico explore the deepest part of the Atlantic Ocean, a trench just north of the island.
Resident Commissioner Pedro Pierluisi says the money also will be used to explore a trench south of the US territory.
He said on Thursday that scientists will focus on studying biogeochemical processes in both trenches and on developing investigative procedures with remote-controlled submarines. Scientists believe both trenches are capable of causing a tsunami in the earthquake-prone Caribbean region.
Professors at the University of Puerto Rico's Mayaguez campus will oversee the investigation.
The National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration is providing the federal funds.