Strong Earthquake Hits Eastern Cuba Following Hurricane Rafael

A 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck eastern Cuba on November 10, affecting areas such as Jamaica, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. This disaster follows Hurricane Rafael, which caused significant destruction and power outages. The cumulative impact necessitates immediate attention and support for affected communities.

On November 10, a powerful earthquake registering a magnitude of 6.8 struck eastern Cuba, with the epicenter approximately 25 miles south of Bartolome Maso. Reports from both the Associated Press and the U.S. Geological Survey confirm that the tremor occurred just before noon local time. This seismic event was accompanied by aftershocks ranging from magnitudes 4.2 to 4.6, impacting areas as far as Jamaica, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico, along with the open waters north and east of these regions. Prior to the earthquake, Cuba had already been challenged by the aftermath of Hurricane Rafael, which made landfall the preceding Wednesday. This hurricane caused extensive power outages, the destruction of numerous homes, and the evacuation of thousands of residents, compounding the island’s difficulties before the quake hit.

The recent earthquake in Cuba underscores the region’s vulnerability to natural disasters, both seismic and meteorological. The island is situated in an area of geological activity and has experienced numerous earthquakes in the past. The simultaneous impact of Hurricane Rafael, which brought significant destruction and disruption to the lives of many Cubans, has further strained the nation’s resources and emergency response capabilities. Such calamities often challenge local communities and tested infrastructure, requiring immediate intervention and support.

In summary, the 6.8 magnitude earthquake that struck eastern Cuba is a critical event, compounding the challenges faced by the nation following Hurricane Rafael’s destructive impact earlier in the week. The extended repercussions of such disasters significantly affect local communities, requiring coordinated response efforts. The resilience of the Cuban people, alongside national and international support, will be essential in addressing the immediate needs arising from these dual crises.

Original Source: brooklyneagle.com