Series of Earthquakes Strike Eastern Cuba Amid Ongoing Crisis
Eastern Cuba recorded a series of earthquakes, including a 6.8 magnitude tremor, after recent hurricanes. The USGS reported the epicenter near Bartolomé Masó, with no initial reports of serious damage. Residents felt the quakes across cities, notably Santiago de Cuba. Concurrently, smaller tremors affected Puerto Rico and raised concerns in Miami, though officials stated no seismic activity was detected in South Florida. This follows a challenging period marked by hurricanes and power outages across Cuba.
On Sunday, eastern Cuba experienced a significant seismic event, registering a 6.8 magnitude earthquake, accompanied by tremors measuring 5.9 and 4.6. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) identified the earthquake’s epicenter approximately 25 miles south of Bartolomé Masó. Residents across the eastern region, particularly in Santiago de Cuba, reported feeling the shaking, prompting many to evacuate their homes and seek refuge outdoors. Fortunately, initial reports indicated no substantial damage or injuries. Yolanda Tabío, a 76-year-old resident of Santiago, described the palpable anxiety as citizens filled the streets. “You had to see how everything was moving, the walls, everything” – The Associated Press. Fellow residents noted feeling aftershocks, though any damages remained unreported. In conjunction with the Cuban earthquakes, Puerto Rico experienced several smaller tremors of varying intensities within a 24-hour timeframe. Concerns emerged as residents in downtown Miami perceived these vibrations; however, city officials assured the public that no seismic activity had been detected in South Florida and responded to inquiries from concerned citizens. These seismic events occur during a challenging period for Cuba, characterized by ongoing recovery from recent hurricanes and energy crises. Just a few days earlier, Hurricane Rafael, categorized as a Category 3, wreaked havoc on western Cuba, resulting in widespread power outages and evacuation of hundreds of thousands. This follows earlier hurricanes and energy shortages that have led to public unrest and protests across the island.
Cuba has been grappling with severe weather challenges, most notably hurricanes that have caused extensive damage and power outages across the island. Recent events include Hurricane Rafael, which struck just before the earthquakes, contributing to a state of emergency for many residents due to both the immediate impacts of the storm and ongoing energy crises. The island has also endured widespread blackouts, triggering civil discontent and prompting small protests among the population as they struggle to cope with the compounded crises of natural disasters and inadequate energy infrastructure.
The recent earthquakes off the south coast of Cuba highlight the ongoing difficulties faced by the island, which is still reeling from the effects of hurricanes and energy shortages. Although the seismic activity did not result in immediate damage or injuries, it has added to the collective anxiety of a populace already under stress from recent natural disasters and governmental challenges. The situation continues to underscore the urgent need for effective disaster response and infrastructure support in the region.
Original Source: www.cbsnews.com
