A strong earthquake measuring 6.1 magnitude struck off the coast of western Cuba on Monday, shaking buildings in Havana and across the island's western region, prompting residents to evacuate homes and offices. However, authorities reported no immediate injuries, damage, or tsunami threats, according to Cuban and US officials.
Details of the Earthquake
The quake struck in waters off Cuba's western tip at a depth of approximately 10 kilometers (six miles), as reported by the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The epicenter was located about 104 kilometers west-northwest of Mantua. The German Research Center for Geosciences (GFZ) recorded the tremor at magnitude 6.0, also placing its depth at 10 kilometers.
Widespread Impact
The tremor was widely felt across western Cuba. Agence France-Presse (AFP) journalists in Havana reported around 20 seconds of shaking that drove people into the streets. Cuban authorities confirmed that the earthquake was felt throughout the entire western part of the country.
Residents described moments of confusion and alarm as the shaking began. Carmel Delgado, a 47-year-old economist, told AFP, "At first I just felt dizzy -- it didn't occur to me it was an earthquake, I'd never experienced that before. But once we realized what it could be, we got out quickly." Flavia Pupo, a manager at the Pinar del Rio hotel in Pinar del Rio province, said the building shook and frightened some people. "Everyone here is OK," she said by telephone. "The people on the street are a little bit scared."
Beyond Cuba
The earthquake was also felt beyond Cuba. The US National Weather Service office in Miami reported receiving several reports of shaking in southwestern Florida following the tremor.
Despite the strength of the quake, authorities reported no immediate casualties or significant damage. The US National Weather Service confirmed that no tsunami warning or watch had been issued.
Seismic Activity in the Region
Cuba lies in a seismically active region. The Oriente fault zone, located off the country's southeastern coast, has produced several damaging earthquakes over the centuries. In January 2020, a magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck offshore between Cuba and the Cayman Islands, causing damage in both territories.
