6.8 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Eastern Cuba, Causing Extensive Damage and Heightening Recovery Efforts
Second Massive Tremor Hits Eastern Cuba in Under an Hour Communities Already Battling Hurricane Recovery Face New Crisis
A 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of eastern Cuba on Sunday, adding to the island’s ongoing recovery challenges following recent hurricanes. The quake struck 39 km south of Bartolomé Masó around noon, following a 5.9 magnitude tremor just an hour earlier, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported.
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel stated that authorities are actively assessing the damage, including reports of landslides, damaged homes, and downed power lines.
Official Tweet from Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez Twitter Handle:
Pedimos a nuestra población en esas zonas salir y mantenerse en lugares abiertos.
— Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez (@DiazCanelB) November 10, 2024
Comenzamos a evaluar daños para empezar la recuperación. Lo primero, y esencial, salvar las vidas.
2/2
Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez is communicating an urgent situation following recent earthquakes in Santiago de Cuba and Granma provinces.
He is informing the public that the National Defense Council has contacted local party leaders in the affected areas. There have been landslides, damage to homes, and disruptions to the electrical grid. He urges the population in these areas to leave their homes and move to open spaces for safety. He also emphasizes that the first priority is to save lives, and recovery efforts are underway with damage assessments being conducted.
The earthquake, one of the strongest felt in recent years, caused visible damage in provinces like Granma, with severe impacts reported in Pilón. Residents across eastern Cuba described the quake as unusually strong, with some sharing firsthand accounts of cracked walls and debris-filled streets.
In a related advisory, the US National Tsunami Warning Center noted there was no widespread tsunami threat but cautioned about potential waves in nearby coastal areas.
This earthquake comes as Cuba struggles with extensive power outages and infrastructure damage, particularly in regions hit hard by Hurricanes Rafael and Oscar. Local officials are working swiftly to mobilize resources, inspect structural stability, and address immediate safety concerns in the impacted communities.
Are you feeling your building shake or the ground vibrate in Miami? 6.5 earthquake just now a little south of Santiago de Cuba a few moments ago and we can see the shockwaves reach South Florida. Video is from North Tower, Quantum in the Bay, Edgewater Miami from resident Daniel… pic.twitter.com/OLOCwyLile
— James Van Fleet (@JamesVanFleet) November 10, 2024
Incident Unfolds with Strong Tremors Across Eastern Cuba
Residents recounted the suddenness of the quake, with some saying they initially mistook the intense shaking for another aftereffect of recent hurricanes.
The incident has also affected power and communication lines, with authorities working to restore stability as quickly as possible. Initial reports indicate that emergency teams are assessing damage and providing immediate assistance to the most affected communities.
CCTV footages of earthquake that struck Cuba.
— Disasters Daily (@DisastersAndI) November 10, 2024
November 10, 2024 #earthquake #cuba #terremoto #temblor #sismo pic.twitter.com/YKp4C55es6
Government Mobilizes Response and Investigation Efforts
In response to the 6.8 magnitude earthquake that struck off eastern Cuba, the Cuban government has swiftly mobilized emergency teams to assess the extent of the damage and initiate recovery efforts.
The National Seismological Service of Cuba confirmed ongoing monitoring of aftershocks to assess further risks to residents and infrastructure. Enrique Diego Arango Arias, head of the Seismological Service, stated that specialists are working closely with local authorities to ensure a coordinated response. “Our priority is the safety and stability of all affected areas,” he emphasized.
Safety Precautions for Residents and Travelers in Affected Areas
Following the recent 6.8 magnitude earthquake off Cuba’s eastern coast, authorities have issued a public advisory to ensure the safety of residents and travelers in impacted regions. The National Seismological Service of Cuba recommends staying alert for potential aftershocks and avoiding unstable structures until safety assessments are complete.
Precautionary Measures:
- Stay Outdoors if Possible: Remain in open areas away from buildings and power lines during aftershocks.
- Prepare an Emergency Kit: Keep essentials like water, non-perishable food, flashlights, and first-aid supplies readily accessible.
- Avoid Damaged Structures: Do not enter buildings with visible damage; report structural issues to local authorities.
- Follow Official Updates: Stay tuned to official news channels and the National Seismological Service for updates on safety and recovery.
Expert Advice: Disaster response specialists advise travelers to check with local authorities before resuming travel plans in affected areas. Additionally, emergency helplines are available to assist those in need of shelter or medical care.
Local and national response teams remain on alert, prepared to assist and provide resources as necessary.
