A 6.8 magnitude earthquake hit eastern Cuba amid recovery efforts from hurricanes and blackouts. The quake, felt across the region, did not result in immediate damage reports. Local residents expressed their fears, citing recent natural disasters that have compounded their hardships, including Hurricane Rafael and prior blackouts. This situation has contributed to growing public discontent.
On Sunday, a significant 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck eastern Cuba, exacerbating the already challenging conditions for residents following recent hurricanes and extensive power outages. The quake’s epicenter was identified by the United States Geological Survey as being located approximately 25 miles south of Bartolomé Masó, causing tremors that were felt broadly across eastern Cuba, including Santiago de Cuba, the nation’s second-largest city. Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of damage or injuries associated with this seismic event. Residents of Santiago described their fearful experiences during the earthquake. Yolanda Tabío, aged 76, recounted how people fled to the streets, nervously remaining in their doorways. She reported feeling at least two aftershocks following the main quake and stated that, among her acquaintances, there were no accounts of significant damage. The earthquake presents yet another trial for Cubans, following a series of natural disasters. Notably, Hurricane Rafael, a Category 3 storm, recently impacted western Cuba, uprooting power lines and prompting widespread evacuations. The devastating storm resulted in the power being knocked out for numerous residents, with many still facing outages days later. Additionally, Cuba had previously endured severe blackouts tied to an ongoing energy crisis, coupled with an earlier hurricane that claimed at least six lives. The cumulative effects of these disasters have not only unsettled daily life but have also fostered growing discontent among citizens, leading to small protests across the island in response to the prevalent hardships.
Cuba has recently faced a series of natural disasters, including hurricanes and an ongoing energy crisis that has resulted in frequent blackouts. The island has been affected by multiple severe weather events, with hurricanes causing extensive damage to homes and infrastructure, leaving countless residents without power for extended periods. Such conditions have fueled public discontent, as the struggles of daily life are compounded by the political and economic challenges faced by the population. The recent earthquake adds another layer of distress to a community that is already grappling with recovery from prior calamities.
In conclusion, the 6.8 magnitude earthquake that struck eastern Cuba has intensified already difficult circumstances for many residents. Following severe hurricanes and widespread power outages, the quake and its aftershocks have left citizens feeling vulnerable while they attempt to recover from the impacts of both natural disasters and ongoing hardships. The situation highlights the interconnectedness of environmental disasters and social unrest within the context of Cuba’s current challenges.
Original Source: www.cbsnews.com
