HAVANA, Cuba – Eastern Cuba was rattled by a 6.8 magnitude earthquake on Sunday, adding to the recent challenges faced by residents in the area. The epicenter of the quake was located near Bartolome Maso, Cuba, and the tremors were felt across the eastern part of the island, reaching cities like Santiago de Cuba, Holguin, and Guantanamo. The impact was also felt in Jamaica, as reported by local media.
Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of major damage or injuries in Cuba. However, residents, especially those in Santiago, expressed being shaken by the quake. Yolanda Tabío, a 76-year-old resident, described the scene in the city as people rushed to the streets and remained on edge, even after the shaking subsided. While there were reports of aftershocks, no significant damages were reported among her circle of friends and family.
The earthquake struck at a challenging time for Cuba, which recently experienced a Category 3 hurricane and island-wide blackouts. Hurricane Rafael hit western Cuba, causing widespread power outages, destruction of homes, and mass evacuations. The aftermath of the storm left much of the island without electricity. Prior to this, the country faced a series of blackouts due to an energy crisis, followed by a devastating hurricane that claimed lives in the eastern region.
The combination of natural disasters and ongoing struggles with power shortages has led to growing discontent among residents, sparking small protests across the island. This earthquake serves as another blow to a community already reeling from recent hardships, emphasizing the resilience and strength of the Cuban people in the face of adversity. As the region works to recover and rebuild, support and assistance from both local and international sources will be crucial in ensuring the well-being of those affected by these events.