Strongest Earthquake in 150 Years Strikes Cuba

A powerful 6.1-magnitude earthquake struck off Cuba’s northwestern coast on Monday, with tremors felt across parts of Mexico and the U.S. state of Florida. Seismologists say it was the strongest earthquake recorded in the region in nearly 150 years.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake’s epicenter was located about 104 kilometers west-northwest of Mantua, a town in western Cuba. The quake occurred at a depth of approximately 26 kilometers.

The tremor triggered panic in several areas of Cuba, prompting many residents to leave their homes and workplaces and seek safety in open spaces. The shaking was also felt in parts of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula and southern Florida.

There were no immediate reports of major damage or casualties. Authorities said they are continuing to monitor the situation.

USGS seismologist Paul Earle said the earthquake was an unusually rare event for the region. According to him, no earthquake of similar strength had been recorded within 322 kilometers of the epicenter since 1880.

Authorities also confirmed that no tsunami warning was issued following the earthquake.