A severe local storm surprised the municipality of Rodas in the province of Cienfuegos on the afternoon of this Sunday.
The meteorologist Yosmelvi Páez reported on Facebook that the phenomenon, which occurred around 5:50 p.m., was accompanied by hail, a sign that reflects the intense atmospheric instability typical of the rainy season in Cuba.
The publication did not provide further details about this weather phenomenon, although this type of storm can bring heavy rain, strong winds, and lightning, so the public is advised to stay informed and take preventive measures.
The Facebook Cyclonic Alert Service page shared images showing hail falling to the ground, which apparently did not reach large sizes.
In a note published in the group Facebook El Tiempo en Cienfuegos, meteorologist Álvaro Pérez Senra warned this Sunday about the likelihood of rain and thunderstorms throughout the country, with greater intensity from Matanzas to Las Tunas, as indicated by the WRF model.
In the case of the province of Cienfuegos, it was noted that the strongest centers would be concentrated in the municipalities of Aguada de Pasajeros, Rodas, Lajas, and Cumanayagua. "In the event of storms, protect yourself," it was recommended.
For those eagerly awaiting the arrival of the rains, June began with good news: the forecasting models predicted an increase in rainfall across much of Cuba.
The information was shared at the time by the Cuban meteorologist Raydel Ruisánchez, who explained on Facebook that just a few days before the month began, global models agreed on a scenario of greater atmospheric instability.
However, the dark side of this increase in atmospheric instability is the dreaded thunderstorms.
In this regard, following the recent deaths of several minors in the province of Artemisa due to an electrical discharge, the state newspaper Invasor again shared on its social media an alert published weeks earlier, warning that lightning causes more deaths in Cuba than hurricanes.
Frequently asked questions about local storms and hail in Cuba
What characteristics did the storm that affected Rodas, Cienfuegos have?
The storm in Rodas, Cienfuegos, was a severe local storm that occurred around 5:50 p.m. and was accompanied by hail. This phenomenon reflects the intense atmospheric instability that is characteristic of the rainy season in Cuba.
Why are severe storms common in Cuba during this time of year?
Severe storms in Cuba are common during this time of year due to the combination of intense daytime heating, high humidity, and local atmospheric factors such as troughs, which promote the formation of extreme events like hail, strong winds, and heavy rains.
What precautions should be taken during thunderstorms in Cuba?
It is important to stay informed through official channels and avoid open areas to minimize the risk of electrical discharges. It is also advisable to secure objects that may be blown away by the wind and to take shelter in a safe place until the storm passes.
What are the consequences of severe local storms in Cuba?
Severe local storms in Cuba can cause significant material damage, including roof destruction, falling trees, power outages, and impacts on the communication system. These weather events can also lead to local flooding due to intense rainfall.
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