A minor earthquake was noticed on Sunday in Santiago de Cuba and its surrounding areas, according to reports from social media users. Shortly after, the National Center for Seismological Research (CENAIS) verified that a noticeable earthquake, with a magnitude of 2.8, took place at 5:54 PM.
The epicenter of this seismic event was pinpointed 20 kilometers southwest of Songo-La Maya in Santiago de Cuba province. In response to these occurrences, Beatriz Johnson Urrutia, the Communist Party secretary in Santiago de Cuba, reminded the public of the safety protocols to follow during earthquakes:
- Stay calm and act swiftly.
- Take cover under sturdy furniture or in a safe spot.
- Keep away from windows and objects that might fall.
- Disconnect electricity and turn off gas.
- Use stairs instead of elevators.
- If outside, remain away from buildings.
- Prepare an emergency kit with water, food, and medications.
In recent months, Cuba has been experiencing significant seismic activity, particularly in the eastern region. On November 10, 2024, two earthquakes, measuring 6.0 and 6.7 in magnitude, were recorded near the municipality of Pilón in Granma province. These incidents caused damage to infrastructures in the provinces of Las Tunas, Granma, Santiago de Cuba, and Guantánamo, with Pilón being the hardest hit area.
Later, on October 17, 2024, a 5.1 magnitude earthquake struck Santiago de Cuba, approximately 20 kilometers south/southwest of the city, marking the twelfth noticeable seismic event in Cuba that year. On December 23, 2024, a 6.1 magnitude earthquake occurred in the early morning with its epicenter in the municipality of Guamá, Santiago de Cuba, causing landslides and road blockages on major routes like the road connecting Granma and Santiago de Cuba. In the days following, 437 aftershocks were recorded, three of which were felt by the populace.
Additionally, another noticeable earthquake was reported in the eastern region on January 9, 2025, though specific details about its magnitude or effects were not provided. More recently, on January 24, 2025, a new seismic movement was felt in the provinces of Santiago de Cuba and Guantánamo, with no significant damage reported. It is noteworthy that following the stronger earthquakes registered in November and December, thousands of aftershocks have occurred in the eastern region, some of which were noticeable.
Authorities, along with CENAIS, continue to monitor seismic activity closely and have emphasized to the public the importance of staying informed and adhering to the recommended protective measures.
Understanding Seismic Activity in Cuba
What safety measures should be taken during an earthquake?
During an earthquake, it is important to stay calm, take cover under sturdy furniture, keep away from windows and heavy objects, disconnect electricity and gas, use stairs instead of elevators, and have an emergency kit ready.
How has recent seismic activity affected eastern Cuba?
Recent seismic activity in eastern Cuba has caused damage to infrastructure, especially in provinces like Las Tunas, Granma, Santiago de Cuba, and Guantánamo, and has led to landslides and road blockages.