Residents of Santiago de Cuba and other eastern regions of the island experienced moments of panic on Sunday morning following a powerful earthquake and subsequent aftershock, which drove thousands into the streets in fear. The tremor, felt across several municipalities in Santiago and possibly in neighboring provinces like Guantánamo and Granma, prompted locals to quickly take to social media to warn about the intensity of the event.
The Facebook page “TV de Cuba” shared images capturing citizens on the streets amidst the turmoil. According to independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada, the initial earthquake was estimated to be around 6.0 on the Richter scale, though this figure remains unofficial. Aris Arias Batalla, head of Operations and Relief at the Red Cross in Santiago de Cuba, also commented on the strength of the tremor, calling it "extremely strong" and noting it occurred at 10:51 a.m.
Aftershock Intensifies Public Anxiety
Just minutes later, an aftershock struck, as reported by journalist Cuscó Tarradell on his Facebook page. He noted, "A second noticeable earthquake in eastern Cuba has driven thousands of Santiago residents into the streets, many moved to tears by the panic such events cause." These seismic activities have heightened anxiety among the population, particularly due to the seismic activity along the Oriente Fault.
While no injuries have been reported thus far, there is a significant likelihood of material damage. Residents remain on high alert for potential aftershocks or new seismic events, underscoring the fragile state of safety in the region.