Eastern Cuba experienced a significant earthquake with a magnitude of 6.8, primarily affecting Granma province and Santiago de Cuba. The quake caused intense shaking of buildings, though reports indicate limited damage and no serious injuries. It follows a succession of recent natural disasters impacting the area, including hurricanes. The US National Tsunami Warning Center confirmed no tsunami threat was posed by this earthquake.
In a recent seismic event, eastern Cuba experienced a substantial earthquake registering at a magnitude of 6.8, as reported by the United States Geological Survey (USGS). This incident occurred off the southeastern coast, particularly impacting Granma province near Bartolome Maso, a historically significant area during the Cuban Revolution. Witnesses, including residents of Santiago de Cuba, recounted intense shaking, describing the tremors as among the most powerful they have experienced in their lifetimes. Reports indicated that while some structures, particularly older buildings, sustained damage, there were no significant injuries or widespread destruction reported, although the region remains vulnerable. Notably, the earthquake’s depth was recorded at 14 kilometers, with initial assessments placing its magnitude lower at 5.8 before being revised. The US National Tsunami Warning Center clarified that this seismic activity posed no tsunami threat. This earthquake is a continuation of recent natural challenges faced by Cuba; following the devastation from Hurricane Oscar in October and power outages affecting millions post-Hurricane Rafael, implications for communication and recovery efforts in eastern Cuba are significant. Most seismic occurrences in Cuba are concentrated around Santiago due to the active fault line along the southeastern coastline, a geographical feature created by the convergence of the North American and Caribbean tectonic plates. Fortunately, the Cuban capital, Havana, was unaffected by this earthquake.
Cuba’s eastern region is frequently shaken by seismic activities due to its positioning along a geologically active fault line. The magnitude of earthquakes can vary significantly, but the recent quake’s strength emphasizes the vulnerability of the area, especially given the age and condition of many structures. Additionally, this seismic event follows several climatic and geological disasters affecting the island, including hurricanes that have compromised infrastructure and power supply, leading to ongoing recovery efforts. Historical events, such as previous earthquakes and hurricanes, have shaped the island’s experience with natural disasters, underlining the importance of preparedness and rapid response to such incidents.
The recent earthquake of magnitude 6.8 in eastern Cuba has resulted in significant shaking but, thankfully, relatively minor damage and no fatalities reported. The region’s susceptibility to both seismic activity and extreme weather events underscores the challenges faced by local residents. With ongoing recovery efforts from prior disasters and an emphasis on communication and safety, the resilience of the affected communities remains paramount as they navigate these challenges. Continuous monitoring and preparedness are essential as seismic activity in this vulnerable area is expected to persist.
Original Source: www.northweststar.com.au
