Landslides, Collapsed Buildings, and Downed Power Poles: The Initial Impact of the Earthquakes in Cuba
At dawn on Sunday, November 10, 2024, eastern Cuba was rocked by two earthquakes measuring 6 and 6.7 on the Richter scale, alarming the population. According to the National Center for Seismological Research (Cenais), the epicenters were located in the Caribbean Sea, 32 kilometers from Pilón in Granma Province. These quakes, among the strongest in recent years, were felt in Granma, Santiago de Cuba, Guantánamo, and Holguín, reaching as far as Camagüey and Ciego de Ávila. So far, approximately 300 aftershocks have been recorded, 15 of which were perceptible to residents.
Significant Damage to Homes and Infrastructure
Although no fatalities or injuries have been reported, the material damage is substantial. President Miguel Díaz-Canel reported landslides, partially destroyed homes, and severe damage to the electrical grid. In Pilón, the quake’s epicenter, the boardwalk saw slabs lifted, and numerous buildings collapsed.
To mitigate the impact, the National Defense Council launched an emergency operation involving the deployment of medical personnel, psychologists, and communication teams, while also ensuring access to essential resources like potable water and food. Assessment teams are surveying the hardest-hit areas to coordinate relief efforts.
Granma: The Hardest-Hit Province
Granma has borne the brunt of the damage, particularly in the municipalities of Pilón, Media Luna, Manzanillo, and Bartolomé Masó. The historic Cabo Cruz lighthouse, a structure over 150 years old, sustained significant cracks. In towns like Bayamo and Buey Arriba, the effects were milder but still noticeable.
Social Media Captures the Tragedy
With limited coverage from official media, social networks have become essential in documenting the destruction. Photos and videos shared by citizens reveal collapsed roofs, crumbled walls, and alarms triggered by the tremors. These images have been vital in illustrating the severity of the situation and mobilizing solidarity.
A Region in Crisis Following Hurricane Oscar
The earthquakes come at a critical time for eastern Cuba, which is still reeling from the effects of Hurricane Oscar three weeks ago. That disaster left eight dead, two missing, and extensive damage to electrical and agricultural infrastructure. The combined impact of these disasters has deepened the region’s vulnerabilities.
Cuba’s Seismic Context: An Active Fault Line
The Oriente Fault, which runs through the southern part of the island, is responsible for most of Cuba’s seismic activity. In 2023, Cenais recorded over 7,000 earthquakes, though only 14 were perceptible. Notable historical earthquakes include those in 1932, 1991, and 2020, all exceeding magnitudes of 6.5.
Preparedness: The Key to Facing Future Disasters
These recent earthquakes highlight the importance of effective emergency planning. While the authorities’ immediate response has been commendable, investing in more resilient infrastructure and improved early warning systems is essential to minimize risks in future natural disasters.
