Magnitude-6.8 Earthquake Hits Eastern Cuba Amid Severe Weather Crisis

A magnitude-6.8 earthquake struck eastern Cuba on Sunday, affecting major cities like Santiago de Cuba, with reported minor damage and no immediate injuries. This event follows Hurricane Rafael, contributing to the ongoing energy crisis caused by the US embargo. Witnesses described residents panicking, while aftershocks were felt as far as Jamaica.

On Sunday, eastern Cuba experienced a significant earthquake registering a magnitude of 6.8, coming in the wake of severe weather challenges including hurricanes and extensive power outages. The tremor resonated through prominent cities, notably Santiago de Cuba, Holguin, and Guantanamo. Fortunately, initial reports indicate no major structural damage or injuries. In Santiago, where the quake’s intensity was especially felt, resident Yolanda Tabio recounted how terrified residents flooded the streets, remaining apprehensively positioned in their doorways. She described experiencing at least two aftershocks and mentioned that she had not received reports of damage from acquaintances or family. “You had to see how everything was moving, the walls, everything,” Ms. Tabio emphasized. Witness accounts of the earthquake detailed experiences of generalized panic, with many residents reporting hearing screams during the prolonged seismic event. Within social media platforms, individuals from the small town of Pilon uploaded images reflecting minor property damage, featuring instances of collapsed roofs and structural cracks. Additionally, the shockwaves from the aftershocks traveled as far as Jamaica, where British tourists Carmen Bezzina and Tracy Morgan shared their own experiences in Negril. “We are obviously not used to earthquakes in Britain, so we knew something was happening,” expressed Ms. Bezzina. This occurrence follows shortly after Hurricane Rafael, which was classified as a Category 3 storm, devastated western Cuba, resulting in extensive power disruptions and considerable property damage. The persistent energy crisis, predominantly attributed to the prolonged US embargo, has exacerbated the challenges faced by the Cuban populace, particularly during times of natural disasters, with reports of extensive blackouts throughout October. After the hurricane, it was reported that at least six fatalities were associated with the ensuing calamity caused by nature’s wrath.

The context surrounding this seismic event highlights the recent severe weather conditions affecting Cuba, including extensive hurricanes that have led to power outages and infrastructural damage. The situation is further compounded by the ongoing energy crisis which has been attributed to the longstanding US embargo that restricts Cuba from obtaining essential repair materials. This earthquake, occurring amidst such conditions, raises concerns about the resilience of the island’s infrastructure and the preparedness to respond to natural disasters.

In summary, the recent 6.8 magnitude earthquake that struck eastern Cuba has elicited widespread reactions within the affected population, although there are currently no reports of major injuries or damage. This disaster follows a series of hurricanes that have significantly impacted the island, highlighting ongoing challenges attributed to natural calamities and systemic infrastructure issues exacerbated by external economic sanctions. Continued vigilance and preparedness are essential for managing future crises in the region.

Original Source: news.az