Enrique Diego Arango Arias, head of the National Seismological Service of Cuba, issued a warning on Monday about an unusual seismic activity occurring since Sunday in the Manzanillo area, located in the province of Granma.
Arango Arias described the situation as "very interesting," urging vigilance among the population. He shared this information on Facebook, where he also posted two official seismological reports from the National Center for Seismological Research (CENAIS) that he was unable to share earlier.
The delay in disseminating the information was attributed to the daily challenges faced by the Cuban population. "Due to lack of electricity, coverage, and phone technical issues, I couldn't share the seismological report on June 28," the expert explained.
According to CENAIS's official records, the magnitude of the seismic events over the last 48 hours has been notable.
From June 27 to 28, the eastern part of Cuba experienced 23 earthquakes, with the Cauto-Guacanayabo area—including Manzanillo—reporting five events with magnitudes ranging from 2.4 to 2.9.
The Santiago-Baconao region was the most active during this period, recording nine earthquakes with magnitudes between 1.3 and 2.6, followed by Imías with eight events ranging from 2.1 to 2.9.
From June 28 to 29, there were 11 earthquakes recorded in Cuba and surrounding areas, including a 2.8 magnitude event in Cauto-Guacanayabo and a significant 4.0 magnitude earthquake near Barbados, the most notable in the Caribbean during this period.
Manzanillo is located within the influence zone of the Cauto-Nipe fault, a tectonic structure over 260 kilometers long, crossing eastern Cuba. It is considered one of the most seismically hazardous areas in the country.
In November 2024, this region experienced a significant seismic sequence with a main event of magnitude 6.7, resulting in over 4,500 aftershocks and damage to 248 homes in Manzanillo.
In his post, Arango Arias also commented on the devastating doublet earthquake that struck Venezuela on June 24, with magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5. He clarified that the United States Geological Survey (USGS) adjusted the focal mechanisms of both events, noting that "it was evidently the same coseismic sequence, starting with a rupture, pausing for a few seconds, and then completing the rupture of the fault segment."
The expert mentioned that aftershocks from that earthquake are expected to continue for months.
Arango Arias also apologized to his followers for being unable to answer calls during noticeable tremors, stating that "at that moment, I am occupied with preparing the official report and attending to the press and visitors at the central station where my office is located."
Understanding Seismic Activity in Manzanillo
What is causing the seismic activity in Manzanillo?
The seismic activity in Manzanillo is influenced by the Cauto-Nipe fault, a tectonic structure that is active and spans over 260 kilometers through eastern Cuba.
How many earthquakes were recorded in the recent reports?
Between June 27 and 29, a total of 34 earthquakes were recorded in the eastern part of Cuba and nearby areas, with varying magnitudes.
Why was there a delay in reporting the seismic activity?
The delay was due to the daily challenges such as lack of electricity, coverage, and phone technical issues faced by the Cuban population.