BSS
  17 Mar 2026, 13:39

Magnitude 5.8 earthquake hits off Cuba: USGS

HAVANA, March 17, 2026 (BSS/AFP) - A 5.8-magnitude earthquake struck off the 
coast of Cuba early Tuesday, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) said. 
There were no immediate reports of damage.

The quake hit at a depth of 11.6 kilometers (7.2 miles) about 49 kilometers 
south-southwest of the port of Maisi at 12:28 am (0428 GMT), according to the 
USGS.

Cuba had just started to restore electricity following a total power blackout 
earlier on Monday, as the United States pursues its oil blockade against the 
island's communist government.

The USGS put the alert level for shaking-related fatalities and economic 
losses at green, meaning "low likelihood for casualties and damage".

The towns of Imias and San Antonio del Sur may have experienced moderate 
shaking, the USGS added.

US President Donald Trump vowed on Monday to "take" Cuba, with reports saying 
his administration has signaled to Cuban officials that Washington wants 
President Miguel Diaz-Canel to be removed from power.

A 5.0-magnitude quake was recorded off the coast of Cuba on March 6, 
according to the USGS.