Authorities are continuing their assessment of the damage caused by a 6.1-magnitude earthquake that hit the southeastern region of Cuba early Monday morning. The quake left a trail of destruction in various areas of Santiago de Cuba and Granma provinces. Beatriz Johnson Urrutia, the first secretary of the Communist Party in Santiago, along with Governor Manuel Falcón Hernández and key leaders from the Guamá municipality, conducted inspections in the affected zones to gauge the extent of the damage, as reported by the official portal Cubadebate.
Preliminary reports indicate that at least seven houses, three state entities, and the Granma highway, particularly the Babujal section connecting the Ocujal del Turquino and Uvero communities, sustained damage. Landslides in the area have obstructed vehicle passage with boulders measuring up to two meters in diameter.
Yurdis Batista Espinosa, president of the Municipal Assembly of People's Power, confirmed that the local government has set up an alternative transport system using buses and trucks to ferry residents from La Plata and Ocujal to the municipal center of Chivirico. "We've been organizing these transfers since early morning, and so far, everything has gone smoothly. Public health, education, and the distribution of basic food supplies continue without interruption, ensuring no disruption to essential services," she stated.
Meanwhile, Caridaniuska Chong Guerra, the first secretary of the Municipal Party Committee in Guamá, noted that although the Defense Council hasn't been activated, a response team is on standby for any seismic events. "We have an organized evacuation and relocation system, ensuring emergency medical care is available," she added.
In the neighboring Granma province, homes and state institution buildings have also been affected, with noticeable cracks primarily in the walls of structures. During a video conference held in Bayamo, Yudelkis Ortiz Barceló, the province's first Party committee secretary, and Governor Yanetsy Terry Gutiérrez reported no fatalities or injuries from the earthquake. They also assured that the province's reservoirs are functioning normally.
Ortiz Barceló urged families to keep emergency backpacks ready, containing essential items such as medications, potable water, and identification cards. In several municipalities, including Pilón, children have been previously instructed on how to respond during an earthquake, a necessity given the increasing intensity of such events in the area since a recent quake a few weeks ago. The Monday earthquake struck at around 1:00 a.m. local time, with its epicenter southwest of Santiago de Cuba.
Frequently Asked Questions on Earthquake Preparedness in Cuba
What areas of Cuba were affected by the recent earthquake?
The earthquake primarily impacted the southeastern regions of Santiago de Cuba and Granma provinces.
What measures are being taken to assist affected residents?
Local authorities have set up alternative transportation systems and are ensuring the continuity of essential services such as healthcare and food distribution.
Were there any casualties reported due to the earthquake?
No fatalities or injuries have been reported as a result of the earthquake.
What precautions are recommended for future seismic activities?
Residents are advised to keep emergency kits ready with essential items like medications, water, and identification documents. Children have also been educated on safety measures during an earthquake.