Strongest earthquake in nearly 150 years hits off Cuba, shakes Mexico, Florida

Executive Briefing

• The earthquake was felt in western Cuba, Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula (including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum), and parts of Florida.
• Seismologists described the event as unusual because it occurred within a tectonic plate rather than along a plate boundary, where most strong earthquakes happen.
• According to the U.S. Geological Survey, no earthquake of similar strength had occurred within 200 miles of the area since 1880.
• Residents in Cuba reported strong shaking and widespread fear, with many people running outside.
• Buildings were evacuated in Cancun and other Mexican tourist destinations as a precaution.
• Authorities in Cuba and Mexico reported no major damage or casualties as of Monday.
• No tsunami warning or watch was issued.