The Institute of Meteorology (INSMET) commented on the rapid and severe deterioration of weather conditions in some municipalities of Havana on the afternoon of this Monday, describing it as a “flare of severity.”
In the Meteorological Report No.1, issued at 9:00 PM, INSMET detailed that in three municipalities of the capital -Boyeros, Plaza de la Revolución, and Diez de Octubre- “the precipitation was accompanied by severe weather and moderate electrical activity.”
In Plaza de la Revolución, the severity was also marked by the fall of abundant hailstones, approximately the size of a pea.
In the case of Boyeros, there was hail in Fontanar.
INSMET confirmed that in Santiago de Las Vegas, specifically in the vicinity of José Martí International Airport, "a weak tornado was reported" between 6:10 PM and 6:15 PM.
In such weather conditions, the airport even recorded a wind gust of 138 km/h.
On the other hand, in La Víbora, in the Diez de Octubre municipality, "strong linear winds caused a tree to fall, as well as damage to the power lines."
The Meteorological Institute attributed the cause of the incident to "the combination of the evening instability generated by the strong warming of the day, typical of this time of year, with local-scale factors, coupled with a warm and moderately humid southeastern flow in the lower layers of the troposphere."
These conditions encouraged the occurrence of some showers, rains, and thunderstorms in the interior and southern areas not only of Havana but also throughout the southern part of the country.
INSMET forecasted for the rest of the night and early morning "the cloud cover associated with this daytime convection," with the outlook that it would dissipate, leaving mostly clear skies.
Frequently asked questions about the weather phenomenon in Havana
What caused the weather deterioration in Havana on Monday?
The deterioration of the weather in Havana was caused by a combination of evening instability, daytime heating, and a warm, moderately humid southeasterly flow in the lower layers of the troposphere. These conditions led to showers, rainfall, and thunderstorms in the Cuban capital.
Where was the hail reported in Havana?
In Havana, hail was reported in the municipalities of Plaza de la Revolución and Boyeros, specifically in the Fontanar area. The hail was approximately the size of a pea.
Was there any more severe phenomenon during the storm in Havana?
Yes, a weak tornado was reported forming near José Martí International Airport in Santiago de Las Vegas. Additionally, there were strong wind gusts of up to 138 km/h and straight-line winds that caused trees to fall and electrical disruptions in the Diez de Octubre municipality.
What recommendations were given in response to these weather events?
Authorities recommended that the public stay informed through official channels and take precautions in the event of thunderstorms, hailstorms, or gusts of wind. This includes avoiding leaving home unless necessary and protecting people and property against possible flooding or material damage.
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