A powerful 5.8 Richter was noted off the eastern coast, on the morning of Tuesday 17/3, with no reports of damage or casualties so far.
The earthquake had an epicenter near the province of Guantanamo and a focal depth of about 15 to 20 kilometers, according to international seismological organizations.
The tremor occurred in the early hours of the morning and was felt in many areas of the eastern side of the country.
The data of the Euro-Mediterranean Seismological Center
According to data from the Euro-Mediterranean Seismological Center, the earthquake was recorded at a depth of 11.6 kilometers at 00:28 midnight local time. The epicenter was located about 49 kilometers south-southwest of the country’s easternmost municipality, Maisi, and 93 kilometers east of Guantanamo.
The area is located in a zone of increased seismicity due to the proximity of tectonic plates in the Caribbean.
The main earthquake was followed by several aftershocks, with the strongest reaching 4.7 on the Richter scale. The existence of aftershocks is considered to be expected in such an event and is an indication that the system is gradually adapting to the new tectonic conditions. However, authorities remain vigilant for the possibility of stronger tremors.
According to euronews, the earthquake was particularly felt in cities such as Santiago de Cuba, Holguín and other nearby areas, where residents took to the streets for precautionary reasons. Despite the intensity of the tremor, authorities have so far reported no casualties or significant property damage.
A few hours after the main earthquake, several smaller aftershocks were recorded in the same area, which has put the authorities on high alert. Emergency services and civil protection continue to assess the situation, in view of the possibility of further tremors.
