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 the National Center for Seismological Research prepare for and respond to seismic events in the region?
**News Interview on Recent Earthquakes in Eastern Cuba**
**Interviewer**: Good afternoon, and thank you for joining us today. We have with us Dr. Ana Morales, a geologist from the National Center for Seismological Research (Cenais). Dr. Morales, can you give us a brief overview of what happened earlier today in eastern Cuba?
**Dr. Morales**: Good afternoon, and thank you for having me. This morning, the eastern region of Cuba experienced two significant earthquakes. The first occurred at 10:50 a.m., with a magnitude of 6.7 on the Richter scale, located approximately 48 kilometers southeast of the municipality of Pilón, in Granma province. The second quake, which was also significant, hit at 11:49 a.m., positioned 32 kilometers southeast of Pilón.
**Interviewer**: That sounds quite alarming. What can you tell us about the depth and the specifics of these earthquakes?
**Dr. Morales**: Both earthquakes were recorded at a depth of 10 kilometers, which is relatively shallow. Such shallow earthquakes can sometimes cause more surface shaking, hence the concern. However, as of now, we have no confirmed reports of injuries or significant material damage.
**Interviewer**: It’s a relief to hear that there have been no immediate casualties. Can you explain how Cenais assesses the impact of these earthquakes?
**Dr. Morales**: Absolutely. Our team continuously monitors seismic activity and maintains communication with local authorities to assess any potential impacts. We analyze the magnitude, depth, and location of the earthquakes and compare this data with historical patterns to inform our response. Our primary goal is to ensure public safety and provide timely information to the communities involved.
**Interviewer**: Are there any preventative measures that residents in earthquake-prone areas should take?
**Dr. Morales**: Yes, preparedness is crucial. Residents should have an emergency kit ready, know safe spots in their homes, and develop a communication plan with family and friends. Regular drills and staying informed through trusted local channels can also greatly enhance community resilience.
**Interviewer**: Thank you, Dr. Morales, for sharing your insights on this situation. We will continue to follow the developments closely.
**Dr. Morales**: Thank you for having me. Stay safe and informed.
