A 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck eastern Cuba on Sunday, following recent hurricanes and extensive power outages. The epicenter was located near Bartolomé Masó, and tremors were felt as far as Santiago de Cuba. Despite residents’ fears and reports of aftershocks, there were no immediate reports of damage or injuries. The quake compounds recent crises, including devastation from Hurricane Rafael and ongoing energy difficulties affecting the entire island.
On Sunday, a 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck eastern Cuba, compounding the challenges faced by the nation in the wake of devastating hurricanes and widespread blackouts. Reports from the United States Geological Survey indicate that the earthquake’s epicenter was situated approximately 25 miles south of Bartolomé Masó. The tremor reverberated throughout the eastern regions of the island, including the city of Santiago de Cuba, leaving many residents shaken. Notably, immediate assessments have revealed no reports of damage or injuries following the quake. Reports from Santiago suggest that residents reacted nervously to the quake, with individuals fleeing to the streets and others remaining in their doorways for safety. “You had to see how everything was moving, the walls, everything,” remarked Yolanda Tabío, a 76-year-old resident of Santiago, who described feeling at least two aftershocks following the initial quake. She noted that among her acquaintances, there had yet to be any reports of physical damage. The earthquake’s occurrence adds to the distress already experienced in Cuba. Just days earlier, Category 3 Hurricane Rafael swept through the western part of the island, inflicting extensive damage, including power outages that affected the entire nation. Hundreds of thousands of individuals were evacuated, while many homes were destroyed. Even days later, numerous regions remained without electricity, exacerbating the existing problems stemming from a prolonged energy crisis. This followed a series of blackouts throughout October, which had sparked unrest and small protests across the island, driven by widespread dissatisfaction among the populace.
Cuba has recently faced a series of natural disasters, notably hurricanes and earthquakes, coupled with significant energy challenges that have led to widespread blackouts. The country has been grappling with an ongoing energy crisis, resulting in power outages that can last for days, further complicating recovery efforts from natural disasters. The impact of recent hurricanes has destabilized the region, sparking evacuations and destruction, while simultaneously straining the infrastructure and resources of the nation, igniting social discontent among its citizens.
In conclusion, the recent 6.8 magnitude earthquake that struck eastern Cuba underscores the precarious situation facing the island nation. Following the destruction wrought by Hurricane Rafael and ongoing energy shortages, the population is increasingly vulnerable. The recent seismic event serves as a stark reminder of the compounded challenges Cuba faces, prompting urgent attention to disaster preparedness and recovery efforts.
Original Source: www.cbsnews.com