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 were the key factors influencing the impact of the recent earthquakes in Cuba, according to Dr. Elena Rodriguez?
**Interview on Recent Earthquakes in Cuba**
**Host:** Welcome to our special segment on natural events affecting our region. Today, we’re discussing the recent earthquakes that shook eastern Cuba this past Sunday, with a focus on the two significant quakes that were recorded. Joining us is Dr. Elena Rodriguez, a seismologist from the National Center for Seismological Research (Cenais). Thank you for being here, Dr. Rodriguez.
**Dr. Rodriguez:** Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss this topic, especially as it concerns the safety and awareness of our communities.
**Host:** Let’s dive right in. Can you tell us what happened this Sunday regarding the earthquakes?
**Dr. Rodriguez:** Certainly. On Sunday, two earthquakes were recorded in quick succession. The first one struck at 10:50 AM with a magnitude of 5.9, and the second, a more powerful quake of 6.7, was recorded at 11:49 AM. Both quakes were located relatively close to the municipality of Pilón in Granma province, with the second being about 32 kilometers southeast of Pilón.
**Host:** That’s quite intense. Were there any reports of damage or injuries following these earthquakes?
**Dr. Rodriguez:** As of now, there have been no confirmed reports of damage to people or properties. However, after such seismic events, we always advise communities to remain vigilant as aftershocks can occur, and it’s crucial to assess any potential impact.
**Host:** What can you tell us about the depth and location of these earthquakes? How does that affect their impact?
**Dr. Rodriguez:** Both earthquakes occurred at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers, which means they were relatively close to the surface. Earthquakes at shallow depths typically cause more intense shaking and can lead to higher potential for destruction, especially in populated areas. In this case, the proximity to Pilón could have heightened the impact, but thankfully, no significant damages have been reported so far.
**Host:** Are communities in Eastern Cuba well-prepared for such seismic events?
**Dr. Rodriguez:** Preparedness varies across different regions. We encourage continuous education on earthquake safety, proper building practices, and community drills. It’s essential for residents to know what to do during and after an earthquake to ensure their safety.
**Host:** Great points, Dr. Rodriguez. As we wrap up, what advice would you give to the residents in the aftermath of these earthquakes?
**Dr. Rodriguez:** I urge everyone to stay informed through local news and advisories from Cenais. It’s important to check your surroundings for any potential hazards, secure heavy furniture, and have an emergency plan in place. Lastly, don’t hesitate to reach out to local authorities if you feel unsafe or need assistance.
**Host:** Thank you, Dr. Rodriguez, for your insights and advice. Let’s hope for the safety of all residents in the region as they recover from this seismic activity.
**Dr. Rodriguez:** Thank you for having me. Stay safe, everyone!
**Host:** This has been a valuable discussion. Thank you to our viewers for tuning in. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they come in.
