**Strong Earthquake Rocks Eastern Cuba Amid Ongoing Turmoil**

HAVANA (AP) - In the wake of recent hurricanes and widespread blackouts, a powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 6.8 struck eastern Cuba on Sunday, adding to the island's challenges. The U.S. Geological Survey reported that the epicenter was about 25 miles south of Bartolome Maso, Cuba.

The tremors were felt throughout the eastern part of the island, affecting major cities such as Santiago de Cuba, Holguin, and Guantanamo. Additionally, local media indicated that the tremors were noticeable in Jamaica. Despite the intensity of the quake, there have been no immediate reports of significant damage or injuries.

In Santiago, Cuba’s second-largest city, residents experienced the quake’s full impact. Yolanda Tabío, 76, shared that people rushed into the streets and remained outside, visibly shaken. According to Tabío, she felt at least two aftershocks, but she had not heard of any damages among her friends and family.

Other firsthand accounts described the fearful reactions, with residents reporting loud screams and noting the quake's prolonged duration. In the small town of Pilon, social media users posted images of minor damages, such as crumbling roofs and cracked walls, which are common issues given the age and disrepair of many Cuban buildings.

This earthquake adds to the string of recent hardships faced by Cuba. Just days earlier, Hurricane Rafael, a Category 3 storm, devastated western Cuba on Wednesday, causing island-wide power outages, destroying hundreds of homes, and leading to mass evacuations. The island continues to struggle with widespread power issues in the hurricane’s aftermath.

In October, Cuba had already endured island-wide blackouts due to an ongoing energy crisis, followed by another powerful hurricane that struck the eastern region and resulted in at least six fatalities. These compounded issues have led to small protests as discontent grows among residents who are grappling with the island’s numerous challenges.