A significant 6.8-magnitude earthquake has struck eastern Cuba, complicating recovery from previous storms. While damage assessments are underway, no fatalities have been reported, though structural damage is evident. This earthquake follows Hurricanes Oscar and Rafael, contributing to a series of natural disasters that have challenged the Cuban population, particularly in terms of infrastructure and economic stability.
A 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck eastern Cuba, intensifying the challenges faced by residents grappling with the aftermath of recent storms and energy crises. The quake, reported by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), occurred approximately 40 kilometers south of Bartolome Maso. Although no casualties have been reported, substantial damage, including landslides and structural harm to homes and power lines, has been observed across Santiago de Cuba and Granma. Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel indicated that assessments of the damage are underway, emphasizing the critical priority of preserving lives. Residents described the earthquake as one of the most powerful tremors they have experienced, shaking buildings and causing widespread panic. State media circulated images showcasing the damage, especially to older structures, highlighting the vulnerability of many homes in the region. The earthquake adds to a series of natural disasters, including Hurricane Oscar and Hurricane Rafael, which have already disrupted infrastructure and caused significant economic strain on the populace as they face ongoing struggles with power outages and displacements.
The earthquake in Cuba follows a turbulent series of natural disasters that have severely impacted the nation’s infrastructure and economic stability. Recent hurricanes, notably Hurricane Oscar and Hurricane Rafael, have resulted in fatalities, extensive power outages affecting millions, and significant damage to homes and public services. The Cuban government has been striving to manage recovery efforts for these incidents while addressing the long-standing challenges posed by an aging infrastructure susceptible to natural disasters. This latest seismic event further complicates recovery efforts in a country already embattled by these emergencies.
The recent earthquake in eastern Cuba has exacerbated the nation’s difficulties as recovery from prior storms remains a pressing concern. With significant structural damage reported and no deaths or injuries thus far, the focus is squarely on damage assessment and ensuring public safety. The confluence of natural disasters in recent months has highlighted the vulnerabilities in Cuba’s infrastructure, requiring immediate attention to restore normalcy and support the affected communities.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
