A 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck near Bartolomé Masó in Cuba’s Granma province on Sunday morning, November 10, 2024, according to initial reports from the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) and the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ). The tremor was registered at approximately 10:50 a.m. local time at a depth of 17 kilometers, classifying it as a shallow earthquake, which often produces stronger shaking on the surface compared to deeper quakes.

The quake was widely felt in the surrounding region, particularly in towns and cities closer to the epicenter. Bartolomé Masó, a municipality of around 53,000 people located 34 kilometers from the epicenter, likely experienced moderate shaking. Nearby towns, such as Yara (population 28,900), Campechuela (population 25,100), and Manzanillo (population 128,200), also felt the tremor, albeit at slightly reduced intensities as the distance from the epicenter increased. Light shaking extended to areas further out, including Contramaestre, about 82 kilometers away, and Santiago de Cuba, the region’s largest city with a population of approximately 555,900, situated 113 kilometers from the epicenter.

Seismic agencies initially provided slightly different measurements of the quake’s magnitude. While EMSC and GFZ reported it as a 6.0 event, France’s Réseau National de Surveillance Sismique (RéNaSS) recorded it as 5.4, and Colombia’s Geological Service (SGC) measured it at 5.6. Variations in readings are not unusual immediately following an earthquake, as data from seismographs worldwide is analyzed and recalibrated. Final determinations on the exact magnitude, depth, and precise epicenter location are expected to be confirmed in the hours following the event.

Although no reports of severe damage have yet been confirmed, light to moderate structural damage is possible in areas close to the epicenter. Buildings and infrastructure in Bartolomé Masó and Yara may have been affected, given the moderate level of shaking they endured. In towns farther from the epicenter, such as Santiago de Cuba, residents likely experienced light but noticeable shaking.

This earthquake adds to the geological activity Cuba has experienced in recent years, underscoring the need for preparedness, especially in communities near fault lines. The Cuban authorities, alongside local emergency services, will likely assess structural damages and ensure the safety of affected populations. As aftershocks are common following seismic events of this magnitude, residents in Granma and surrounding provinces are advised to remain vigilant and take precautions. 

For now, Cuba’s geological authorities are closely monitoring the region, ensuring updated information for residents and readiness to deploy emergency response if necessary.