Well, this is something new to report that certainly wasn’t on my Monday bingo card! A 6.1 magnitude earthquake hit just off the coast of Cuba today around 2:00 or so, and the effects were felt here in Central Florida. We are hearing that the aftershocks were felt at Walt Disney World, we live just off property and our house shook as well. There are no operational updates from the parks that we know of.
This high-magnitude earthquake struck off the west coast of Cuba near Mantuba this afternoon, June 8. At this time, there are no tsunami warnings, advisories, watches, or threats in effect for any impacted areas. That’s good news!
Why Was an Earthquake in Cuba Felt in Central Florida?
While it may seem surprising that an earthquake hundreds of miles away could be felt in Florida, it’s actually not unheard of. Large earthquakes occurring in the Caribbean can send seismic waves across great distances, especially when they occur at certain depths and magnitudes. Florida’s limestone bedrock can also help those vibrations travel farther than many people realize.
Many Central Florida residents reported feeling a brief shaking sensation, rattling windows, swaying light fixtures, and even vibrating furniture. Social media quickly filled with posts from people asking if anyone else had felt their homes or offices move, and it turns out they weren’t imagining things.
What About Walt Disney World?
Because earthquakes are so uncommon in Florida, many guests and Cast Members may not have immediately recognized what they were feeling. Some described it as a passing vibration, while others thought a large vehicle had driven by or that nearby construction activity was causing the movement.
Are Earthquakes Common in Florida?
Florida is considered one of the least earthquake-prone states in the country. Most earthquakes that affect the Sunshine State actually originate elsewhere, including the Caribbean region and occasionally the southeastern United States. While it is rare to feel noticeable shaking in Central Florida, today’s event serves as a reminder that seismic activity can sometimes be experienced far from its source.
So no Disney World, you’re not crazy, you really did feel an earthquake! I know I did!
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