A strong earthquake of 6.8 magnitude struck Bartolome Maso, Cuba, on November 10, triggering aftershocks and affecting neighboring islands including Jamaica and Puerto Rico. This event followed Hurricane Rafael, which had caused extensive damage earlier in the week, leading to power failures and evacuations.

On November 10, a powerful earthquake measuring 6.8 on the Richter scale struck eastern Cuba, with the epicenter located approximately 25 miles south of Bartolome Maso. The tremor, which occurred just before noon local time, was followed by several aftershocks ranging from magnitudes 4.2 to 4.6. Tremors were also reported in neighboring regions, including Jamaica, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico, as well as offshore areas to the north and east. This seismic event occurred in the aftermath of Hurricane Rafael, which had devastated the region a week prior by causing widespread power outages and the destruction of numerous homes, leading to the evacuation of thousands.

Cuba has encountered numerous natural disasters, with the recent hurricane severely impacting the population and infrastructure. The earthquake exacerbates an already challenging situation for the island, as communities strive to recover from last week’s hurricane-induced damage. Historical records indicate that seismic activity in the Caribbean region could pose risks to the stability of infrastructure and safety of its residents, necessitating preparedness and timely responses to such disasters.

The recent 6.8 magnitude earthquake in eastern Cuba serves as a significant reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by the region, particularly in light of the preceding Hurricane Rafael. With aftershocks felt across neighboring territories, the need for effective disaster response strategies is critical. Addressing the challenges posed by natural disasters remains imperative for the safety and well-being of local communities.

Original Source: brooklyneagle.com