A magnitude 5.9 earthquake struck 37 kilometers south of Guisa, Cuba, on December 27, 2024, at 17:34:35 UTC, with a depth of 22.241 kilometers at coordinates (19.9162, -76.5153) 3. The seismic event has caused significant damage to infrastructure and prompted an immediate emergency response from local authorities.
Infrastructure Damage and Emergency Response
The earthquake has left a trail of destruction in the southeastern region of Cuba, particularly affecting Santiago de Cuba and Granma provinces. Preliminary reports indicate that at least seven houses and three state entities have sustained damage, including the Granma highway, particularly the Babujal section connecting the Ocujal del Turquino and Uvero communities 2 4. Landslides have obstructed vehicle passage with boulders measuring up to two meters in diameter, further complicating rescue efforts.
Local authorities have activated an evacuation and emergency medical care plan for those affected in Santiago de Cuba and Granma. An alternative transportation system using buses and trucks has been set up to ferry residents from La Plata and Ocujal to the municipal center of Chivirico, ensuring the continuity of essential services like healthcare and food distribution 2 4.
Humanitarian Challenges and Response Efforts
The earthquake has also disrupted communication networks, making it challenging for authorities to coordinate a comprehensive response. However, local leaders have mobilized response teams to address any seismic situation, ensuring emergency medical care is available for those in need 2 4.
In the neighboring Granma province, homes and state institution buildings have been affected, with noticeable cracks primarily in the walls of structures. Despite the damage, no fatalities or injuries have been reported as a result of the earthquake, and the province's reservoirs continue to operate normally 2 4.
Ongoing Assessments and Future Preparations
Authorities are continuing their assessment of the damage caused by the earthquake. The first secretary of the Communist Party in Santiago, Beatriz Johnson Urrutia, along with Governor Manuel Falcón Hernández and key leaders from the Guamá municipality, are conducting inspections in the affected zones to gauge the extent of the damage 2 4.
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, a necessity given the increasing intensity of such events in the area 2 4.