6.1 magnitude earthquake near Cuba shakes Havana & Florida

A magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck western Cuba on Monday (June 8), according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

The earthquake occurred about 100 kilometres off the western tip of the island, approximately 118 kilometers west-northwest of the town of Mantua in Pinar del Río Province.

According to Cuban authorities, no property damage or casualties had been reported at the time of publication.

Tremors felt in Havana

The shaking was felt throughout the western region of the country, particularly in the provinces of Havana and Pinar del Río Province.

Journalists from the Agence France-Presse (AFP) in the Cuban capital reported that the tremors lasted about 20 seconds, prompting many residents to leave buildings and gather in the streets.

Felt as far as Florida

Cuban authorities stated that the earthquake was felt across western Cuba.

According to several American media outlets, the tremors were also felt in parts of Florida, including the areas around Miami, Hollywood, and Tampa.

Miami city officials reported receiving several emergency calls following the earthquake but noted that there were no injuries or significant damage.

No tsunami threat

The U.S. National Tsunami Warning Centre and the National Weather Service indicated that the earthquake posed no tsunami threat to the United States.

Cuban authorities continued to assess the situation on Monday afternoon.

The earthquake comes at a time when Cuba is facing a severe economic and social crisis, as well as major disruptions in its tourism sector.

Several Canadian airlines and tour operators have suspended operations to the island, and several international hotel groups have reduced or ended some of their activities there.

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