A powerful 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck eastern Cuba on Sunday, intensifying the island’s challenges following recent hurricanes and widespread blackouts.
The earthquake’s epicenter was reported approximately 25 miles south of Bartolome Maso, affecting a broad area including major cities such as Santiago de Cuba, Holguin, and Guantanamo. The tremor was also felt in Jamaica, as reported by local media.
Despite the strength of the quake, there were no immediate reports of severe damage or injuries, a relief for residents already burdened by previous natural disasters. In Santiago, Cuba’s second-largest city, Yolanda Tabío, 76, mentioned the residents’ fear, noting that many rushed to the streets and lingered nervously outside their homes. She experienced at least two aftershocks but hadn’t heard of significant damages among her acquaintances. ‘You had to see how everything was moving, the walls, everything,’ she recounted.
Social media platforms were abuzz with reports from Pilon, a small town, where residents shared images of minor damage, including crumbling roofs and cracks in building walls. This is not uncommon in Cuba, where many structures are aged and require upkeep.
This seismic activity compounds Cuba’s recent struggles. Just days before, Category 3 Hurricane Rafael had devastated western Cuba, leading to island-wide power outages, destroying numerous homes, and necessitating the evacuation of hundreds of thousands. At the time of the earthquake, much of the island was still grappling with the aftermath of these events, with power restoration ongoing.
In addition to Hurricane Rafael, the past month has seen Cuba hit by extensive blackouts, an outcome of the island’s ongoing energy crisis. These blackouts, coupled with the damage from hurricanes, have sparked minor protests as citizens express their frustration over the challenging living conditions.
The recent earthquake adds to a series of crises that have tested Cuba’s resilience. As the island continues its recovery efforts, the resilience of its people is evident, though the path forward remains uncertain.
Source: Sun-sentinel
