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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What are the potential risks for residents following the recent earthquakes in eastern Cuba?
### Interview with Dr. Maria Lopez, Earthquake Seismologist
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Lopez. The recent earthquakes in Cuba have caught the attention of many. Can you tell us about the significance of these two earthquakes that occurred on Sunday?
**Dr. Lopez:** Thank you for having me. The two earthquakes that struck eastern Cuba are quite significant, especially with magnitudes of 6.7 and the one earlier at 6.0. Earthquakes of this strength can cause considerable damage, although we are fortunate that, as of now, there are no reports of injuries or severe damage.
**Editor:** What can you tell us about the locations of these earthquakes?
**Dr. Lopez:** Both earthquakes were centered southeast of the Pilón municipality. The first quake occurred at 10:50 am, while the second followed just under an hour later. Both had a shallow depth of about 10 kilometers, which can increase the potential for damage compared to deeper quakes.
**Editor:** Given their shallow depth, should residents in the area be concerned about aftershocks?
**Dr. Lopez:** Yes, aftershocks are common following significant earthquakes, especially when the quakes occur at shallow depths. Residents should remain alert and prepared, as smaller tremors can follow in the days or weeks after the initial earthquake.
**Editor:** What measures can the Cuban government take to ensure safety and preparedness for future seismic events?
**Dr. Lopez:** Preparedness is essential. The Cuban government can enhance public awareness campaigns about earthquake safety, conduct drills, and ensure that buildings—especially in vulnerable areas—are constructed to strict seismic standards. Monitoring systems should also be in place to provide real-time data and alerts to residents.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Lopez, for your insights on this important topic. We will keep an eye on updates regarding the situation in Santiago de Cuba.
**Dr. Lopez:** Thank you for covering this vital issue. Staying informed and prepared can save lives.
