Seismogenetic regularities of the Cuban Western Neotectonic Unit.

Abstract

Neotectonic elements and seismicity of the Cuban Western Neotectonic Unit are presented and briefly discussed. Cuba is a block (or microplate) located in the southern part of North America plate at least since the Upper Eocene. The tectonic boundaries of the Western Neotectonic Unit are three fault zones (Nortecubana, Surcubana and Cauto-Nipe). This unit is characterized by intraplate seismicity with Ms<7,0 and large recurrence periods. Some considerations about the seismic hazard with geological implications for the territory are also shown. The fault intersections are the most unstable areas.