Heavy and intense rains are battering the western part of Cuba this Monday, with forecasts indicating that they will continue for the next few hours, causing disruptions, particularly in low-lying and vulnerable areas of provinces such as Pinar del Río, Artemisa, Mayabeque, and Havana.
According to meteorologist Raydel Ruisánchez on Facebook, a well-structured trough at different levels of the troposphere is generating high levels of relative humidity, which contributes to a persistent atmospheric instability in the region.
The rains could be accompanied by thunderstorms and strong gusts of wind, increasing risks for the population.
It was noted that the accumulated rainfall is already significant in several areas of the west, and that the intensity of the event may increase during the night.
"The specialist warned that these rains are expected to be accompanied by thunderstorms and could generate significant gusts of wind."
Particular attention should be given to Havana, where inadequate urban drainage could lead to localized flooding if the rainfall continues, he emphasized.
The informational note was accompanied by a satellite simulation from the GFS model, which shows the presence of active convective nuclei over much of western Cuba, a clear indication that the system is well organized.
Ruisánchez urged the public to exercise extreme caution, especially in communities prone to flooding, and to stay informed through official channels as the situation develops.
For its part, the Institute of Meteorology of Cuba warned on its Facebook profile that "an area of precipitation is increasing in intensity" and shared an image from the weather radar showing how the most compact and active cloud clusters are concentrated specifically over the western region of the country.
Meteorologist Frank Fernández Castañeda warned on social media that rainfall could accumulate to over 300 mm in just 24 hours, particularly in areas of Pinar del Río and Artemisa, which increases the risk of flooding in low-lying areas or those with poor drainage.
According to the explanation, a well-structured trough at the mid and upper levels of the troposphere, located to the east of the Gulf of Mexico, keeps the probabilities of intense and persistent rains very high over western Cuba.
The Meteorology Institute had already anticipated this situation since 11:00 a.m. In its official forecast for the afternoon and evening of this Monday, it warned that it would be cloudy over much of the country, with numerous showers, rain, and thunderstorms in the western and central regions, which could be strong in certain inland areas and along the northern coast.
He also warned that the rainfall would continue until late at night, while in the east it would be isolated.
The beginning of June had already been indicated by specialists as a period likely to see an increase in rainfall across much of the country. Global models agreed on a scenario of greater atmospheric instability due to the combination of a trough in the mid and upper levels of the atmosphere with the passage of tropical waves to the south of the area.
This pattern, common for this time of year, would increase tropical humidity and promote the occurrence of downpours and evening storms. Although immediate cyclonic development is not expected, the persistent instability in the Caribbean could lead to the formation of a low-pressure center with the potential for development.
On another note, a massive dust cloud from the Sahara arrived in the eastern Caribbean this Monday and is expected to move towards areas of Cuba and southern Florida in the coming hours. This phenomenon, common in the region during the summer, could impact air quality and create hazy skies.
According to a report by the AP agency, the cloud stretched for about 3,200 kilometers, from Jamaica to beyond Barbados, and 1,200 kilometers from the Turks and Caicos Islands to Trinidad and Tobago. This is one of the most extensive outbreaks of Saharan dust so far this year, which could amplify the weather effects in the western Caribbean, including Cuba.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Intense Rains and Storms in Western Cuba
What is the current situation in western Cuba due to the rains?
The western region of Cuba is being affected by heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, which have resulted in significant water accumulation and flooding risks, especially in low-lying areas with poor drainage. Provinces such as Pinar del Río, Artemisa, Mayabeque, and Havana are particularly impacted.
What weather factors are causing these climatic conditions in Cuba?
The current conditions are being caused by a well-structured trough at various levels of the troposphere, which generates high humidity levels and an unstable atmosphere. Additionally, a preceding cold front has contributed to this situation, increasing the likelihood of rain and thunderstorms.
What precautions should residents of the affected areas in Cuba take?
It is crucial for residents of the affected areas to take extreme precautions and stay informed through official channels. In particular, communities in low-lying areas or with poor drainage should be vigilant for potential flooding. It is advisable to avoid open areas during storms due to the risk of electrical discharges.
What impact have the rains had on the infrastructure of Havana?
The rains have had a significant impact on the infrastructure of Havana, with streets turned into rivers and vehicles partially submerged due to flooding. Neighborhoods such as Centro Habana and El Cerro have been severely affected, with high levels of water accumulation making mobility difficult.
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