Significant Earthquake Strikes Eastern Cuba with No Major Impact

An earthquake of magnitude 5.9 struck eastern Cuba with no casualties or significant structural damage. The quake occurred at a depth of 25 km off Santiago de Cuba and was followed by over 100 aftershocks. The region, due to its tectonic plate boundaries, is prone to seismic activity, though Havana remained unaffected.

On Monday morning, eastern Cuba experienced a magnitude 5.9 earthquake, according to the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC). Although the quake was significant, it did not result in any reported casualties or major structural damage. The earthquake, which occurred at a depth of 25 kilometers, was registered off the coast near Santiago de Cuba and was initially measured at 6.1 by local authorities. Following the initial tremor, more than 100 aftershocks were recorded. Previously, a 6.9 magnitude quake in November affected the Granma province, causing minor structural issues but no fatalities. The region’s seismic hazards stem from the fault line marking the boundary between the North American and Caribbean tectonic plates, contributing to the area’s frequent seismic activity. Interestingly, the capital city, Havana, was unaffected by this seismic event, allowing normal operations to continue undisturbed.

Cuba is situated in a geologically active region, characterized by tectonic plates, which makes it susceptible to earthquakes. The boundary between the North American Plate and the Caribbean Plate runs near the eastern part of the island, accounting for the frequent seismic occurrences. Historic earthquakes have prompted the Cuban authorities to maintain vigilant monitoring and preparedness, although significant casualties have been rare in recent tremors despite their intensity. Understanding the tectonic dynamics of this region is essential for assessing risks associated with seismic activity.

The recent earthquake off the coast of eastern Cuba serves as a reminder of the region’s seismic vulnerability, though it fortunately resulted in no casualties or substantial damage. The depth and magnitude of the quake were significant, accompanied by numerous aftershocks, highlighting the ongoing threat from tectonic movements in the area. With effective monitoring and preparedness strategies, Cuba continues to navigate the challenges posed by its geological setting.

Original Source: www.devdiscourse.com