A magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck off Cuba’s northwestern coast on Monday, with tremors felt across parts of Cuba, the United States, and Mexico. According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake’s epicenter was located in the sea approximately 104 kilometers from the western Cuban city of Mantua. The quake occurred at a depth of about 26 kilometers, which is considered a moderate-to-shallow depth and contributed to the widespread impact of the tremors.
Strong shaking was reported in several parts of Cuba immediately after the earthquake. Residents evacuated homes, offices, and public spaces as the ground shook for several seconds. Buildings were reported to have swayed slightly in multiple cities.
The tremors were clearly felt in Havana and several other major Cuban cities. Residents reported sudden ground movement that continued for several seconds, prompting many people to move to open areas as a precaution.
According to initial reports, there has been no confirmation of major structural collapses or severe damage. Authorities continued to monitor the situation and emergency services were placed on alert.
The effects of the earthquake were also felt beyond Cuba. In the United States, residents in parts of Florida, including Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Orlando, reported light but noticeable shaking. Some occupants of high-rise buildings said they felt structures move briefly. As a precaution, some government offices and tall buildings were evacuated, although no threat was subsequently confirmed.
Tremors were also reported in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, including the tourist destinations of Cancún, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum. Residents and visitors reported mild shaking that lasted only a few seconds. Local authorities began monitoring the situation and increased preparedness measures to address any potential risks.
As of the latest available information, there has been no official confirmation of significant damage or casualties in Cuba, the United States, or Mexico. Experts said that although the earthquake registered a magnitude of 6.1, its offshore location and position near a relatively less populated area helped prevent widespread destruction.
Disaster management agencies in the affected areas continue to monitor conditions and conduct preliminary assessments.
Seismologists said the earthquake’s depth and offshore epicenter contributed to the broad distribution of tremors across the region. Shallow earthquakes are often felt more bly at the surface, particularly when they occur near oceanic tectonic plate boundaries.
Experts also noted that while moderate-to-large earthquakes are relatively uncommon in the Caribbean region, the area remains exposed to seismic risk because it lies near active tectonic plate boundaries.
Following the earthquake, authorities assessed the possibility of a tsunami, but no tsunami warnings were issued by any national agency. Despite the offshore location of the quake, no signs of significant water displacement were reported.
Officials have advised residents to remain alert and be prepared for possible aftershocks.
Authorities and disaster management teams in Cuba and neighboring areas remain on alert for potential aftershocks. Residents have been advised to rely only on official information and avoid rumors.
Safety inspections are being conducted at schools, offices, and public facilities to identify and address any potential risks.
According to earthquake experts, earthquakes of magnitude 6.0 or greater are infrequently recorded in this region. Preliminary reports indicate that an earthquake of this magnitude is a rare event for the area and is considered seismically significant.
