A 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck eastern Cuba amidst recent hurricanes and ongoing blackouts, leaving residents shaken without immediate reports of damage. The quake follows Hurricane Rafael, which caused wide-ranging destruction and power outages, heightening existing tensions and protests among the Cuba populace.
On Sunday, a 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck eastern Cuba following a series of significant climatic events, including hurricanes and widespread blackouts that have severely impacted the island. The United States Geological Survey noted that the quake’s epicenter lay approximately 25 miles (40 km) south of Bartolomé Masó. The tremors reverberated throughout eastern Cuba, notably in urban centers such as Santiago de Cuba, where no immediate damage or injuries were reported. Residents described the experience as unsettling, with many fleeing to the streets for safety. The earthquake arrives during a particularly challenging time for Cuba, exacerbating the difficulties faced by its citizens. Recently, Hurricane Rafael, classified as a Category 3 storm, devastated western Cuba, resulting in extensive power outages and the destruction of numerous homes, necessitating the evacuation of hundreds of thousands. The power crisis has persisted, with blackouts plaguing the nation for days and inciting a wave of protests among the populace in response to deteriorating living conditions. Cubans are now confronting yet another crisis in the wake of the natural disasters.
Cuba has faced considerable adversities in recent weeks, largely due to a series of hurricanes that have intensified the existing energy crisis on the island. The recent hurricanes have not only caused physical destruction but also contributed to widespread power outages that have left communities vulnerable. The struggle for adequate resources has led to significant civil unrest, with citizens expressing their frustrations through protests as they cope with the aftermath of these disasters.
The 6.8 magnitude earthquake that shook eastern Cuba is a critical addition to the series of recent calamities affecting the island, following hurricanes and prolonged blackouts. While immediate reports indicate no significant injuries or damage, the ongoing struggles of the population serve as a reminder of the challenging circumstances that Cubans face. The recovery from such events will undoubtedly require substantial efforts and support as the nation grapples with its compounded crises.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
