On Sunday, Cuba experienced a 6.8 magnitude earthquake, with additional tremors of 5.9 and 4.6 magnitudes. The quakes were felt across eastern Cuba, particularly in Santiago. Fortunately, no injuries or significant damages were reported. The seismic activity adds to the ongoing difficulties following Hurricane Rafael, which recently struck the country, causing extensive destruction and power outages.
On Sunday, eastern Cuba experienced a significant earthquake measuring 6.8 in magnitude, accompanied by subsequent tremors of 5.9 and 4.6 magnitudes. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the epicenter was located about 25 miles (40 km) south of Bartolomé Masó. The seismic activity was felt broadly across the eastern section of the island, specifically in major urban areas such as Santiago de Cuba. Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of injuries or damage. Residents expressed their concerns following the quakes, with 76-year-old Yolanda Tabío recounting how the tremors caused panic, prompting many to evacuate into the streets and sit nervously in their doorways. She noted experiencing at least two aftershocks, yet had not heard of any harm to her friends and family. In her words, “You had to see how everything was moving, the walls, everything.” Additionally, within the same 24-hour period, Puerto Rico was affected by several smaller earthquakes, measuring between 2.5 and 3.8 in magnitude, as documented by the USGS. While residents in downtown Miami reported feeling aftershocks, city officials reassured the public that no seismic activity or aftershocks had been detected in South Florida, emphasizing the absence of any cause for alarm. These earthquakes have compounded the difficulties faced by the Cuban people, who are already grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Rafael, which struck the western region earlier in the week. The hurricane induced island-wide power outages, devastated infrastructure, and necessitated the evacuation of hundreds of thousands. Cuba has been in a precarious state, having earlier endured prolonged energy blackouts and another hurricane that resulted in fatalities, with widespread protests emerging in response to the ongoing hardships.
Cuba has been enduring challenging times, marked by severe weather events and infrastructural issues. Recently, Hurricane Rafael caused significant damage across the island, leaving many without power and displacing thousands. Furthermore, the country’s persistent energy crisis has led to extensive blackouts, creating a backdrop of unrest among the population. As the nation copes with these compounded crises, the seismic events pose additional stress amid the existing challenges.
In summary, the recent earthquakes off the southern coast of Cuba have heightened the challenges already faced by its residents, who are recovering from the devastating impacts of Hurricane Rafael and subsequent power outages. Despite widespread concern, initial reports indicate no significant damage or injuries. The recurrent natural disasters underscore the urgent need for effective crisis management and support for the beleaguered Cuban populace as they navigate these difficult times.
Original Source: www.cbsnews.com
