An earthquake of magnitude 6.7 on the open Richter scale shook the eastern region of Cuba, the second reported this Sunday, without confirmation of damage to people or materials so far, according to the National Center for Seismological Research (Cenais). .
This new earthquake was recorded at 11:49 am, located 32 kilometers southeast of the Pilón municipality, in the Granma province, and at a depth of 10 kilometers.
The earthquake that preceded it took place at 10:50 am at 19.75 degrees north latitude and 76.91 degrees west longitude, also at a depth of 10 kilometers and also with an epicenter located 48 km southeast of Pilón.
Cenais indicated that in addition to Granma, the movement was perceived in the eastern provinces of Guantánamo, Santiago de Cuba and Holguín. Likewise, it was felt in Camagüey and Ciego de Ávila, in the central-east.
These earthquakes have as a precedent the 5.1 magnitude recorded on October 17 and which was felt in Santiago de Cuba, Guantánamo and Granma (east), without reporting material damage.
The eastern provinces add these shocks to the intense rain storms received in recent days, and in particular Guantánamo, which was severely affected three weeks ago by the impact of tropical storm Óscar, with a death toll of eight and considerable damage to homes. and agriculture.
Cuba registered a total of 7,475 earthquakes in 2023, of which 14 were perceptible, according to the Cenais annual summary. The magnitudes ranged from less than 3 to 5.9 on the Richter scale.
The Oriente geological fault, the main area of seismic activity in Cuba, marked the highest number of earthquakes in the Caribbean country in the past year.
About 70% of the telluric movements are reported in this Oriente fault, located along the southeast coast of the island. In 2018, there were 15 perceptible movements in that area alone.
Cuba is located in a region – spanning from the Dominican Republic to Mexico – in which different tectonic fault systems converge with significant seismic activity.
Other large magnitude earthquakes have previously been documented in Cuba, such as the one of 6.7 on the Richter scale recorded in February 1932, and those of 6.9 -in 1991- and 7.1 -in 2020-, both located in the Granma province.
Cuba / EFE
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How does Cenais evaluate the potential risks and impacts following significant seismic events?
**Title: Understanding the Recent Earthquake in Eastern Cuba: An Interview with Dr. Maria Torres, Seismologist at Cenais**
**Editor (E):** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Torres. Can you provide us with a brief overview of the two earthquakes that struck eastern Cuba today?
**Dr. Maria Torres (T):** Thank you for having me. Today, we recorded two significant earthquakes in eastern Cuba. The first occurred at 10:50 am with a magnitude of 6.7, located 48 kilometers southeast of the Pilón municipality in Granma province. The second quake, also with a magnitude of 6.7, struck at 11:49 am, positioned 32 kilometers southeast of Pilón. Both earthquakes were at a depth of 10 kilometers, which is relatively shallow and can increase potential damage.
**E:** As of now, there’s no confirmed report of damage or casualties. How does Cenais assess the impact of these earthquakes?
**T:** After each seismic event, our team conducts rapid assessments to gather data on possible effects. We monitor social media reports, communicate with local authorities, and rely on early warning systems. Fortunately, since there are no immediate reports of damage or injury, we remain cautious but hopeful.
**E:** Given the magnitude of these quakes, what can residents in the affected areas do to prepare for potential aftershocks or future seismic events?
**T:** It’s important for residents to remain vigilant. They should familiarize themselves with safety protocols, such as “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” during an earthquake. It’s also wise to secure heavy furniture and review emergency plans with family and neighbors. Staying informed through government alerts and resources is crucial.
**E:** What does this activity indicate about seismic trends in the region?
**T:** Earthquakes aren’t uncommon in this part of Cuba due to its geographical location along tectonic boundaries. While this activity may feel alarming, it’s essential to note that not every seismic event leads to disaster. Our team continues to monitor seismic patterns to better understand any potential trends.
**E:** Thank you, Dr. Torres, for shedding light on this important topic. We appreciate your insight and the vital work that Cenais does.
**T:** Thank you for having me and for raising awareness about earthquake preparedness. Stay safe, everyone!