Bahamians Abroad Marked Safe From Strongest Quake in Nearly 150 Years

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CUBA – It was a frightening afternoon for thousands across the region after a powerful earthquake struck off Cuba’s northwest coast on Monday afternoon.

The 6.1-magnitude quake is being described as the strongest to hit the area in more than a century.

It sent shockwaves across parts of Cuba, Mexico and Florida.

The magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck at a shallow depth, sending shockwaves across the region.

Reports indicate the tremor was so powerful that it could be felt more than 400 miles away. Residents in Cuba, parts of Mexico and even Florida reported feeling the ground shake.

Concerns quickly turned to the safety of Bahamians living and traveling in those countries. We spoke with Bahamas Ambassador to Cuba, Dr. Elliston Rahming, who says there was no impact on Bahamians in Havana.

Dr. Elliston Rahming – Bahamas Ambassador to Cuba

“No, no. Bahamians were totally unaffected, and it didn’t cause any real damage to Cuba. It happened on the periphery of the island.”

While the earthquake’s epicenter was located off the island’s northwest coast, officials say Havana was spared any significant effects.

Reports also emerged that some residents in Tampa, Florida, and surrounding areas felt the tremors.

To find out what conditions were like there, we reached out to Bahamian Cyle Hepburn, who says the earthquake completely caught him by surprise.

Cyle Hepburn – Bahamian Resident, Tampa

“I didn’t feel or hear anything about the earthquake at all.”

Cyle Hepburn – Bahamian Resident, Tampa

“I’m pretty sure if I did, they would have let me know, or they would have given me a call.”

Although this earthquake caused little damage, officials say events like these highlight the importance of emergency preparedness. Ambassador Rahming says the embassy remains ready to assist Bahamians should the need ever arise.

Dr. Elliston Rahming – Bahamas Ambassador to Cuba

“The embassy stands ready to assist Bahamians as best as we can in any eventuality, but fortunately, that did not arise in this instance because, as I said, Havana was not impacted at all.”

With the massive earthquake leaving many across the region shaken, it served as a frightening reminder of nature’s power rather than a major disaster.