6.8 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Eastern Cuba Amidst Natural Disasters
On Sunday, eastern Cuba was shaken by a 6.8 magnitude earthquake amid ongoing distress from hurricanes and blackouts. The epicenter was located 25 miles south of Bartolomé Masó, affecting cities like Santiago de Cuba. Residents described panic in the streets, with reports of aftershocks but no immediate damage. The quake adds to Cuba’s existing struggles following Hurricane Rafael and a continuing energy crisis, leading to protests across the island.
On Sunday, eastern Cuba experienced a significant 6.8 magnitude earthquake, following a tumultuous stretch marked by hurricanes and widespread blackouts. The United States Geological Survey reported that the epicenter was located approximately 25 miles (40 km) south of Bartolomé Masó. The tremor was felt across the eastern region of the island, including in major cities such as Santiago de Cuba. Although there were no immediate reports of damage or casualties, the earthquake further heightened anxiety among residents still grappling with the aftermath of recent natural disasters. Santiago de Cuba, the nation’s second-largest city, faced additional turmoil as citizens reacted with concern and fear. One resident, Yolanda Tabío, aged 76, illustrated the panic: “You had to see how everything was moving, the walls, everything,” reflecting the chaos in the city as many took to the streets or nervously remained in their doorways. She noted experiencing at least two aftershocks but had not heard of any damages among her acquaintances. This earthquake arrived at a particularly difficult time for Cuba, which had already been afflicted by the impacts of Hurricane Rafael earlier that week. This Category 3 hurricane caused extensive damage, power outages throughout the country, and led to the evacuation of hundreds of thousands. Many areas remained without electricity days later, compounding the ongoing energy crisis, which had already led to widespread blackouts earlier in October. The cumulative stress of these disasters has resulted in small protests across the island, reflecting widespread discontent among the populace.
The recent 6.8 magnitude earthquake in eastern Cuba is intertwined with a series of natural disasters that have severely affected the nation. Prior to the quake, the island experienced the ravages of Hurricane Rafael, which resulted in extensive property damage and power outages. Additionally, ongoing challenges such as an energy crisis led to days of blackouts and widespread dissatisfaction among the population. This earthquake exacerbates an already precarious living situation for many Cubans, highlighting the vulnerabilities faced by the country.
In conclusion, the occurrence of a 6.8 magnitude earthquake in eastern Cuba highlights the dire circumstances the country is presently facing. Following the significant disruptions caused by hurricanes and persistent blackouts, the earthquake has left residents anxious and unsettled. The cumulative effects of these calamities have sparked civil unrest and dissatisfaction among the populace, posing a significant challenge to recovery efforts and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
