A 6.1 magnitude earthquake struck near western Cuba, causing buildings to shake across Havana and Florida, as far north as Orlando. Despite the widespread tremors, no injuries or damage have been reported, though it prompted building evacuations and temporary train suspensions in Miami.
A significant 6.1 magnitude earthquake occurred near western Cuba on Monday afternoon, generating tremors that were felt across a wide area, including Havana and parts of Florida extending north to Orlando. While the shaking was notable, particularly in southwestern Florida, authorities have confirmed no injuries or structural damage. The event led to precautionary measures in Miami-Dade County, where several buildings, including a 28-story government high-rise, were evacuated, and elevated commuter train services were temporarily halted. Maria Moncayo, working in Fort Lauderdale, described feeling a minute-long vibration, reminiscent of construction, which brought back memories of a devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake she experienced in Ecuador. Geophysicist William Barnhart of the U.S. Geological Survey characterized this earthquake as exceptionally rare, marking it as the largest ever recorded in the Gulf of Mexico with modern instruments dating back to the 1950s. He noted it's one of only five or six earthquakes of magnitude 5 or greater known in the entire Gulf. No tsunami was generated, and while western Cuba might experience strong aftershocks, they are unlikely to be felt in Florida. Barnhart also mentioned a very small chance of a larger follow-up earthquake. The region is near the Oriente fault zone, which has a history of powerful quakes, including a 7.7 magnitude event in 2020.
