6.8 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Cuba Amid Ongoing Crises
On Sunday, eastern Cuba was shaken by a 6.8 magnitude earthquake, compounding the island’s difficulties following Hurricane Rafael and ongoing power blackouts. Tremors were felt widely, causing alarm among residents, though immediate reports indicated no major injuries or damage. The earthquake adds to the ongoing challenges Cuba faces amid a series of natural disasters and energy crises.
A powerful earthquake measuring 6.8 in magnitude struck eastern Cuba on Sunday, following a series of hurricanes and extensive blackouts that have already burdened the nation. The United States Geological Survey reported that the seismic epicenter was located approximately 25 miles south of Bartolome Maso. Tremors were widely felt across major cities, including Santiago de Cuba, Holguin, and Guantanamo, and even reached Jamaica. Thankfully, initial assessments indicated no significant reports of damage or injuries. Residents in Santiago, Cuba’s second-largest city, experienced considerable alarm as they rushed into the streets. Yolanda Tabío, a 76-year-old inhabitant, recounted, “You had to see how everything was moving, the walls, everything.” Many residents reported lingering in doorways, anxious and shaken. While aftershocks were felt, reports of structural damage were limited, though social media showcased some instances of deterioration in buildings, particularly in the town of Pilon where older structures exhibit vulnerabilities. This earthquake adds to Cuba’s recent difficulties. Hurricane Rafael, which recently passed through, caused widespread devastation, including extensive power outages and housing destruction as it was classified a Category 3 storm. Thousands were evacuated, and in the wake of the hurricane, residents continue to grapple with the effects of prolonged power outages prompted by an escalating energy crisis. The cumulative stress of natural disasters has fueled public discontent, leading to budding protests around the country.
Cuba faces a challenging period characterized by adverse weather events and infrastructural weaknesses. The recent hurricane season has inflicted considerable damage, with Hurricane Rafael contributing significantly to power outages and homelessness. The island has been grappling with energy crises, leading to widespread blackouts and dissatisfaction among the populace. Additionally, Cuba’s aging infrastructure has made it vulnerable to both natural disasters and the strain of regular maintenance, creating a cycle of difficulty that residents currently endure.
In summary, the recent 6.8 magnitude earthquake that struck eastern Cuba exacerbates the island’s ongoing struggles following natural disasters and extensive power outages. Despite initial reports indicating no substantial harm, the concerns among residents about the stability of their aged infrastructures remain paramount. The combination of these natural calamities has ignited growing social unrest, reflecting the broader discontent in the populace regarding their challenging living conditions.
Original Source: www.wmar2news.com
