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 utilize technology to monitor and respond to seismic activity in regions like Granma?
**Interview with Dr. Elena Torres, Seismologist at the National Center for Seismological Research (Cenais)**
**Editor**: Thank you for joining us, Dr. Torres. We have just learned about two significant earthquakes affecting the eastern region of Cuba today. Could you summarize what happened?
**Dr. Torres**: Thank you for having me. Yes, indeed. This morning, we experienced two earthquakes in close succession. The first occurred at 10:50 am and registered a magnitude of 6.7 on the open Richter scale. Its epicenter was located approximately 48 kilometers southeast of Pilón, Granma province, at a depth of 10 kilometers. Less than an hour later, a second earthquake struck at 11:49 am, also with a magnitude of 6.7, located 32 kilometers southeast of Pilón, again at a depth of 10 kilometers.
**Editor**: That’s quite significant. Do we have any reports of damage or injuries from these events?
**Dr. Torres**: As of now, there have been no confirmed reports of damage or injuries to people or materials. However, local authorities are still assessing the situation, and we will continue to monitor the impact closely.
**Editor**: Can you explain what residents in the affected areas should do in the aftermath of such earthquakes?
**Dr. Torres**: Absolutely. People should remain calm and be aware of their surroundings. It’s important to check for any structural damage in homes and buildings. If you notice any cracks or issues, it’s advisable to evacuate the premises and seek shelter outdoors or in designated safe areas. Also, remain alert for potential aftershocks, which can occur following a significant earthquake.
**Editor**: What measures does Cenais take to monitor seismic activity in regions like Granma?
**Dr. Torres**: Our team constantly monitors seismic activity through a network of sensors across the island. We analyze data in real-time to provide emergency services and the public with timely information. Additionally, we conduct regular training and drills to prepare residents for earthquakes and promote awareness about safety protocols.
**Editor**: Thank you, Dr. Torres, for your insights and for keeping us informed about these seismic events. We hope the situation remains stable.
**Dr. Torres**: Thank you for covering this important issue. Keeping the public informed is crucial, and we appreciate your efforts.
