Notes on three earthquakes in Santiago de Cuba (14.10.1800, 18.09.1826, 07.07.1842)

Abstract

Damage and parameters of the earthquakes of October 14, 1800, September 18, 1826, and July 7, 1842, in Santiago de Cuba, in southeastern Cuba, have been studied. A quantitative re-evaluation of the size of the events is not feasible due to a lack of data. Hence, we have reinterpreted existing data to establish likely intensities and determine the epicentral region of occurrence. Available data do not permit accurate depth determinations. Intensities estimated from contemporary documentary sources give maximum values of 8, 8–9 and 8 (MSK scale), respectively. These seismic shocks were located in the Southeastern Seismotectonic Province of Cuba, Plate Boundary Zone Caribbean—North Atmerican. The earthquakes are associated with the Oriente fault system.