Since dawn on this Monday, intense storms have been affecting the western part of Cuba, raising concerns about potential flooding in vulnerable areas.
In light of this situation, the Center for Forecasting of the Institute of Meteorology (INSMET) reported that a frontal trough is slowly moving over the southeast of the Gulf of Mexico.
Although this system is expected to weaken in its southern portion in the coming hours, throughout the day, an increase in cloud cover in the western region of the country will be favored, with the occurrence in the afternoon of some showers and rain, primarily in areas along the northern coast.
The weather forecast for the rest of today indicates that cloudy conditions will prevail from dawn in the western region of the country, with showers, rain, and occasional thunderstorms expected to continue for much of the day.
In the central part of the country, it will be dawn with partial cloudiness, while the east will have little cloud cover. By the late morning, it will be partially cloudy in both regions, becoming overcast in the afternoon with some rain and isolated thunderstorms, mainly in the interior and north.
The afternoon maximum temperatures will range between 32 and 35 degrees Celsius, being higher in some inland areas.
During the night, temperatures are expected to range between 23 and 26 degrees Celsius, slightly higher in coastal areas. Winds will be variable and light.
Regarding the state of the sea, there will be waves on the northeastern coast, slight waves on the northern central and southeastern coasts, and calm seas along the rest of the coasts.
It is advised that in areas of thunderstorms, wind strength and wave height may locally increase.
This weather event in Cuba coincides with similar conditions in southern Florida, where a low-pressure system and an unstable front band are drawing moisture into the region, significantly increasing the likelihood of storms.
Intense rains, severe thunderstorms, and risk of flooding are forecasted for much of South Florida, especially in areas east of I-75.
Rainfall could reach between 2.5 and 7.6 centimeters, with isolated areas receiving more than 15 centimeters.
The situation is particularly delicate because a large part of the area is experiencing severe or extreme drought conditions, which prevents the dry and compact soil from draining rainwater properly, further increasing the risk of flooding.
Authorities in both regions recommend that the population stay informed through official channels and take necessary precautions against potential impacts in vulnerable areas.
In a weather update, satellite images showed how heavy rainfall is affecting the province of Matanzas and the special municipality of Isla de la Juventud.
Frequently asked questions about storms in western Cuba
Which areas of Cuba are being most affected by the storms?
The storms are mainly affecting the western part of Cuba, including provinces such as Havana, Pinar del Río, and Artemisa. These regions are experiencing heavy rainfall, and the risk of flooding is high due to the vulnerability of these areas.
What is the cause of the intense storms in western Cuba?
The intense storms are due to a frontal trough that is moving over the southeastern Gulf of Mexico, which is causing an increase in cloud cover and precipitation in the western part of Cuba. This weather phenomenon is accompanied by showers and thunderstorms, mainly along the northern coast.
What precautions should residents in the affected areas of Cuba take?
It is recommended for residents to stay informed through official channels and take precautions against possible flooding, especially in low-lying areas and those with poor drainage. It is also advisable to secure material goods and be prepared for possible evacuations if authorities indicate so.
How does the situation in Cuba compare to that of South Florida?
Similar to the west of Cuba, southern Florida is experiencing an increase in humidity due to a low-pressure system and an unstable frontal band. This has raised the likelihood of storms, and the region is also facing a high risk of flooding, exacerbated by the severe drought that has hardened the soil.
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