Multiple earthquakes struck off the southern coast of Cuba on Sunday, including a 6.8 magnitude quake. This follows recent hurricanes that left many areas without power. While shaking was felt in larger cities, there were no immediate reports of significant damage. The series of earthquakes exacerbate existing challenges faced by the island due to prior natural disasters and ongoing public discontent.
On Sunday, a series of significant earthquakes struck the southern coast of Cuba, centered near Pilon. The largest quake measured 6.8 in magnitude, accompanied by two additional tremors of 5.9 and 4.6, affecting communities still grappling with the aftermath of recent hurricanes and widespread power outages. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported the epicenter as being approximately 25 miles south of Bartolomé Masó, with shaking felt extensively in eastern cities, including Santiago de Cuba. Fortunately, initial reports indicated no major damage or injuries, despite the profound unease among local residents, many of whom evacuated to the streets in response to the seismic activity.
Cuba has faced considerable challenges recently, with the latest earthquakes compounding the distress already caused by natural disasters. With Hurricane Rafael having recently caused significant destruction, including power outages and evacuations affecting hundreds of thousands, the seismic events have further intensified the hardships experienced by the population. The island’s energy crisis that led to previous blackouts and public discontent has also fueled protests, showcasing deep-rooted issues within the infrastructure and emergency response systems.
In summary, the recent earthquakes near Pilon, Cuba represent a concerning development for a nation already beleaguered by natural disasters and infrastructure challenges. The resilience of the people is commendable, as they navigate multiple adversities simultaneously. The situation warrants continued monitoring and support efforts to aid in recovery and long-term resilience planning in the face of future challenges.
Original Source: www.cbsnews.com
