A 6.8 magnitude earthquake shook eastern Cuba on Sunday, following weeks of hurricanes and blackouts. The quake’s epicenter was near Bartolomé Masó, and although no significant damage has been reported, residents are anxious. Previous hurricanes and a national energy crisis have left many Cubans reeling, heightening unrest on the island.
On Sunday, a 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck eastern Cuba amidst ongoing challenges such as hurricanes and blackouts, exacerbating the plight of residents across the island. The quake’s epicenter was located approximately 25 miles (40 km) south of Bartolomé Masó, according to the United States Geological Survey. Tremors were felt widely, including in major cities such as Santiago de Cuba. Fortunately, there have been no initial reports of significant damage or injuries. However, the emotional toll on residents was palpable as people flooded the streets, anxiously waiting for aftershocks. In Santiago, residents like 76-year-old Yolanda Tabío recounted their experiences during the quake, with many still unsettled by the tremors. “You had to see how everything was moving, the walls, everything,” she relayed to The Associated Press, indicating the extent of the quake’s impact on daily life. Following previous calamities, this earthquake struck at a time when many Cubans were already dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Rafael and the ongoing national energy crisis. Just days before the earthquake, Hurricane Rafael, a Category 3 storm, wreaked havoc in western Cuba, leaving widespread power outages and causing the evacuation of numerous communities. In the weeks leading up to this, the island endured exceptional blackouts due to an ongoing energy crisis, coupled with a previous hurricane that further devastated the region, resulting in fatalities and overwhelming destruction. The current situation has incited growing discontent and small protests among the populace, reflecting their struggle to cope with these compounding crises.
The recent earthquake in Cuba follows a series of devastating weather events and energy challenges that have significantly affected the lives of Cubans. The island has been grappling with an energy crisis that has produced persistent blackouts, leading to social unrest and protests. Compounding these challenges, Hurricane Rafael caused widespread destruction and power outages, leaving many citizens vulnerable just before the quake struck. Understandably, the cumulative effects of these events have heightened the anxiety and distress among the Cuban population.
The 6.8 magnitude earthquake that hit eastern Cuba is a significant event that compounds the difficulties faced by residents after recent hurricanes and ongoing blackouts. While immediate reports indicate no damages or injuries, the psychological impact on individuals has been noteworthy. The broader context of natural disasters and systemic energy issues further complicates the situation for citizens, prompting a sense of urgency and discontent within communities across the island.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
