6.8 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Cuba Amid Ongoing Crises
A 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck eastern Cuba amid ongoing crises from hurricanes and persistent blackouts. The quake, felt widely including in Santiago, caused panic but no immediate injuries or damage. The island has already been dealing with crises, including Hurricane Rafael and electrical outages, resulting in protests and social unrest.
On Sunday, a powerful earthquake, measuring 6.8 in magnitude, struck eastern Cuba, compounding the distress experienced by residents following recent hurricanes and widespread blackouts. The United States Geological Survey indicated that the epicenter was located around 25 miles (40 km) south of Bartolomé Masó. Tremors from the earthquake were felt across eastern regions, including Santiago de Cuba, the island’s second-largest city, prompting citizens to evacuate into the streets. Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of physical damage or injuries owing to the quake. The quake occurred during a challenging period for the island. Just days prior, Hurricane Rafael, classified as a Category 3 storm, wreaked havoc in western Cuba, leading to extensive power outages and substantial property destruction. Many residents remained without power days later, suffering the effects of prior energy crises that had already resulted in significant blackouts throughout October. This tumultuous period has contributed to rising discontent amongst the populace, sparking small protests in various locations across Cuba.
Cuba has faced significant challenges in recent weeks, including hurricanes that cause extensive damage and prolonged blackout situations attributed to an ongoing energy crisis. The country has been experiencing a series of natural disasters, including hurricanes that knock out power and force mass evacuations. The current political climate has seen widespread dissatisfaction among citizens, resulting in social unrest manifested through protests. Understanding the context of these earthquakes within Cuba’s broader environmental and political struggles is essential to grasp the emotional and physical toll on its residents.
The recent 6.8 magnitude earthquake underscores the precarious situation in Cuba, already strained by hurricanes and energy crises. Despite initial fears, reports indicate no immediate damage or injuries. However, the combination of natural disasters and ongoing blackouts has heightened tensions among the populace, resulting in protests as citizens seek stability and assistance during these difficult times.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
