CUBA – A powerful 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck eastern Cuba on Sunday, compounding the struggles faced by residents still reeling from recent hurricanes and prolonged blackouts.

According to the United States Geological Survey, the quake's epicenter was located about 25 miles (40 km) south of Bartolomé Masó, sending tremors through several cities, notably Santiago de Cuba, the island's second-largest city. While the initial reports indicated no immediate damage or injuries, the psychological toll on the population is significant.

Yolanda Tabío, 76, a Santiago resident, described the scene, stating, "People flooded into the streets and sat nervously in their doorways." She noted experiencing at least two aftershocks afterward, but as of now, there has been no news concerning serious property damage in her community.

This earthquake occurs amidst a series of natural disasters that have seriously impacted Cuba. Just days prior, Hurricane Rafael, a Category 3 storm, wreaked havoc across the western part of the island, causing power outages and the destruction of hundreds of homes, which forced thousands to evacuate.

The situation has been exacerbated by a severe energy crisis that has led to widespread blackouts, leaving citizens frustrated and struggling to cope. Over the past few weeks, many areas have experienced continuous outages, sparking small protests as the population calls for action amidst economic hardships.

October was especially tumultuous, as the island was initially rocked by extensive power cuts followed closely by a fierce hurricane that claimed at least six lives. The combined effects of these natural disasters and the ongoing energy woes have left many Cubans feeling distressed and hopeless.

As the island attempts to recover from yet another seismic event, the international community is monitoring the situation closely, with hopes that assistance will be provided to help those in need during these challenging times. Will Cuba's resilience prevail against the forces of nature and economic strife? Only time will tell. Stay tuned for updates!