Earthquake Strikes Cuba Amidst Hurricanes and Blackouts

A 6.8 magnitude earthquake hit eastern Cuba on Sunday, intensifying the hardships endured from recent hurricanes and prolonged blackouts. No immediate damage or injuries were reported, but residents in cities like Santiago de Cuba were visibly shaken. The quake comes after weeks of severe storms and power outages affecting the island.

A powerful 6.8 magnitude earthquake rattled eastern Cuba on Sunday, further burdening an island already in distress from recent hurricanes and widespread blackouts. According to the United States Geological Survey, the quake's epicenter was located about 25 miles south of Bartolomé Masó.

The tremors were felt across eastern Cuba, including in major cities such as Santiago de Cuba, but initial reports indicated no damage or injuries. Residents of Santiago, Cuba's second-largest city, described scenes of panic as people evacuated buildings and gathered in the streets.

This latest natural disaster adds to the island's woes following Category 3 Hurricane Rafael, which swept through western Cuba last Wednesday, causing massive power outages and substantial damage. The ongoing energy crisis has already sparked protests and deepened the public's frustration.

(With inputs from agencies.)