A magnitude 6.1 earthquake strikes off the northwest coast of Cuba on Monday afternoon, prompting tremors that are felt in parts of Cuba, Mexico and the US state of Florida. According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the quake occurs about 65 miles (105 km) north-west of Mantua, Cuba, at a shallow depth of roughly 16 miles (about 26 km). Multiple outlets describe the event as the strongest earthquake in the region in nearly 150 years. Reports also note that the tremors reach areas that are not typically affected by earthquakes, including parts of Mexico such as Cancún and communities in Florida.
Officials cited across the coverage have not reported any major damage or casualties at the time of publication. However, one outlet highlights that vulnerability concerns are elevated in Cuba because many buildings have deteriorated after decades of economic hardship, leaving structures potentially less able to withstand seismic shaking. Commentary from researchers included in one report characterizes the event as unusual for the area of the Caribbean.
