A powerful 6.8-magnitude earthquake hit eastern Cuba, exacerbating recovery efforts from recent storms. Residents described the quake as one of the strongest felt, with reports of structural damage and landslides. The earthquake follows Hurricanes Oscar and Rafael, which caused fatalities and extensive power outages across the island. Cuban officials are assessing damage as they work to restore stability.
A significant earthquake of magnitude 6.8 struck eastern Cuba on Sunday, compounding the challenges that residents face as they recuperate from recent devastating storms. The U.S. Geological Survey reported the quake occurred approximately 40 kilometers south of Bartolome Maso, with initial assessments indicating no fatalities or injuries. Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel confirmed damages, including landslides and destruction of homes and power lines, particularly in the Santiago de Cuba and Granma provinces. Residents described the earthquake as one of the strongest they have experienced, causing considerable structural damage in an area already vulnerable due to old infrastructure. The aftermath of the earthquake comes on the heels of Hurricane Oscar, which caused fatalities and extensive power outages, and Hurricane Rafael, which further disrupted life for millions. Images from local media show significant destruction, highlighting the dire state of public infrastructure in the region, as the nation faces economic strain and ongoing recovery challenges.
Cuba has been grappling with a series of natural disasters that have significantly impacted its infrastructure and the livelihoods of its citizens. Recent hurricanes, including Hurricane Oscar and Hurricane Rafael, resulted in loss of life and widespread power outages, displacing hundreds of thousands. The island’s vulnerability is compounded by aging buildings and structural inadequacies that exacerbate the consequences of such disasters. As Cuba attempts to recover from storms and address economic challenges, the earthquake presents a new hurdle in an already fragile situation.
In conclusion, the 6.8 magnitude earthquake that struck eastern Cuba represents a profound challenge for a nation already reeling from the effects of recent storms and economic instability. As residents begin to assess the damage and recover from this natural disaster, the urgency to restore power and address infrastructural vulnerabilities becomes paramount. The combined devastation from the earthquakes and hurricanes underscores the significant risks and challenges that Cuba faces in disaster management and recovery.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
