On Sunday, Cuba was struck by two powerful earthquakes, causing widespread damage, particularly in the eastern provinces of Santiago de Cuba and Granma. The tremors disrupted power services, damaging transformers and power cables, leaving many areas without electricity. Efforts are ongoing to restore the power supply across the region.
Magnitude of the Earthquake
The first earthquake, with a magnitude of 5.9, hit at 10:50 AM ET, followed by a stronger tremor of magnitude 6.8 an hour later. These back-to-back earthquakes rocked Cuba’s eastern region, causing major damage to infrastructure, including homes and buildings. Tremors were felt as far as central Florida, with many people reporting shaking in cities such as Santiago de Cuba, Holguín, and Guantánamo.
According to the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre, the epicentre of the earthquake was located off the coast of Cuba. Many residents fled their homes, seeking shelter as the ground beneath them trembled.
Also Read: Possible Tornado Hits Fergus, Ontario Amid Severe Thunderstorms
Power Grid Damage and Recovery Efforts
The earthquake caused severe disruption to Cuba’s already strained power grid. Reports indicate that power outages affected a significant portion of the eastern provinces. The National Electric Power System was hit hard, with several key transformers and power lines damaged. As of now, power restoration is underway, but it could take days before full services are restored.
Landslides and Structural Damage
In addition to the damage to the power infrastructure, landslides were also reported. These landslides blocked roads and caused further disruptions in the affected areas. While initial reports do not confirm any fatalities, the situation remains under close observation by the authorities.
Cuba’s infrastructure, much of which is aging, has been vulnerable to seismic activity. This earthquake is another reminder of the island’s susceptibility to earthquakes. As a nation situated near major fault lines in the Caribbean, Cuba experiences tremors from time to time. However, the scale of the recent earthquake has heightened concerns about the resilience of the country’s infrastructure.
Reports of Damage to Homes
In Santiago de Cuba, residents reported shaking buildings, cracked walls, and the collapse of roofs. Many older homes, which are common in Cuba, sustained significant damage. Videos shared on social media show crumbling structures and cracked walls. A resident from Pilon, a small town in eastern Cuba, shared images of damaged homes, adding to the growing concerns.
Despite the damage, no fatalities have been confirmed at this stage. Many locals, however, expressed their fear, as the tremors caused widespread panic. Some people reported hearing loud noises as the walls shook. Many took to social media to share their experiences and provide earthquake updates to others in the affected areas.
Cuban Earthquake Tracker: Monitoring Aftershocks
The region is also being closely monitored by earthquake trackers. Aftershocks have continued to follow the main earthquake, with residents reporting further shaking and tremors. Experts have warned that more aftershocks could be felt in the coming days.
The US Geological Survey confirmed the two powerful tremors and has been providing earthquake updates for the region. The seismic activity highlights Cuba’s vulnerability to natural disasters, which has been compounded by a series of devastating events over recent weeks.
Recent Challenges in Cuba
The Cuba earthquake is part of a series of disasters that have affected the island in recent months. Just last week, Hurricane Rafael, a Category 3 storm, caused widespread destruction, knocking out power and destroying homes in its path. In addition to the recent earthquake, Cuba has also struggled with an ongoing energy crisis, which has exacerbated the challenges faced by the government in responding to natural disasters.
Cuban officials have been working tirelessly to restore services in the wake of the storm and earthquakes. However, the country’s ageing infrastructure, combined with the financial strain, poses significant challenges.
Earthquake Tips: What to Do During and After an Earthquake
As Cuba grapples with the aftermath of the earthquake, it’s important for residents to stay informed about safety measures. Here are some essential earthquake tips:
- Drop, Cover, and Hold On: If you’re indoors, drop to the floor, take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture, and hold on until the shaking stops.
- Stay Outdoors if You Can: If you are outside, stay away from buildings and other structures that might collapse.
- Avoid Aftershocks: Aftershocks are often felt after the main quake. Be prepared to drop, cover, and hold on if they occur.
- If you are trapped or injured, try to contact emergency services or signal for help. Texting or using a whistle can be more effective than shouting.
Looking Ahead
The latest earthquakes have once again reminded Cuba of its vulnerability to natural disasters. The damage to infrastructure will take time to assess fully, and recovery efforts will be ongoing. As more earthquake updates come in, the Cuban government will likely continue to focus on restoring power and providing aid to those affected.
In the meantime, locals are encouraged to stay vigilant and keep emergency supplies on hand. The island’s ongoing challenges, compounded by both the earthquake and the recent hurricane, make it crucial for residents to follow earthquake tips and stay prepared for further seismic activity.
