Sea rising in Gibara: Hurricane Erin causes strong waves and forces the suspension of nautical activities

Images from Gibara show a choppy sea with waves reaching 1.5 meters due to Hurricane Erin. Caution is advised, and nautical activities along eastern Cuba's northern coastline should be postponed.

Sea of waves in GibaraPhoto © Facebook / MeteoCanal / Norge Augusto Gallardo Quesada

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The coast of Gibara, in the province of Holguín, recorded waves over 1.5 meters on Monday, associated with the swell caused by the hurricane Erin as it moved across the Atlantic.

The information was shared in the Facebook group “MeteoCanal” by Norge Augusto Gallardo Quesada, who posted images of the Gibara coastline showing the conditions of “swell” or “ground swell,” as it is commonly referred to in Cuba.

Capture Facebook / MeteoCanal / Norge Augusto Gallardo Quesada

According to the publication, swells from the Atlantic reach a height of over 1.5 meters and hit hard along the northeastern coast.

Facebook / MeteoCanal / Norge Augusto Gallardo Quesada

In his post, he recommended caution to the public and advised delaying nautical activities until the wave height decreases.

Facebook / MeteoCanal / Norge Augusto Gallardo Quesada

This phenomenon is common when tropical cyclones like Erin pass through the waters of the Atlantic, even if they are far from the archipelago, as they generate wave trains that reach the northern coasts of Cuba.

Facebook / MeteoCanal / Norge Augusto Gallardo Quesada

The rough sea poses a risk not only for navigation but also for individuals approaching low-lying coastal areas, which is why meteorologists urge adherence to safety measures.

Facebook / MeteoCanal / Norge Augusto Gallardo Quesada

On its part, the official Gibaravisión reported on Facebook that the rough sea affected the Güirito area: "Coastal flooding is observed in the low areas."

Facebook Capture / Gibaravisión

Parallely, a new tropical wave in the eastern Atlantic has started to attract the attention of the National Hurricane Center (NHC) due to its potential for development in the coming days.

Although it is currently an area of rain and disorganized thunderstorms, meteorologists warn that environmental conditions could become more favorable by the end of the week, potentially leading to the formation of a tropical depression.

The system, moving from west to west-northwest at about 32 km/h (20 mph), has a 50% chance of becoming a tropical cyclone in the next seven days, according to the latest bulletin from the NHC.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Impact of Hurricane Erin in Cuba

How has Hurricane Erin affected the coastline of Gibara?

The coastline of Gibara has recorded waves of over 1.5 meters due to the swell caused by Hurricane Erin as it passed through the Atlantic. This phenomenon affects the northeastern coast of Cuba, posing a risk to navigation and to individuals approaching the low-lying areas of the shore.

Does Hurricane Erin pose a direct threat to Cuba?

For now, Hurricane Erin does not pose a direct threat to Cuba. Although the hurricane is located in the northern eastern Caribbean, current forecasts do not suggest it will directly affect Cuban territory. However, the swell is an indirect effect that is already being felt on the northern coast of Cuba.

What recommendations have been given to the population of Gibara regarding the waves caused by Erin?

The population of Gibara has been advised to take precautions and postpone nautical activities until wave heights decrease. Meteorologists emphasize the importance of adhering to safety measures to avoid risks associated with rough seas.

How does Hurricane Erin affect other regions of the Caribbean?

Hurricane Erin has generated high seas and dangerous conditions in several nearby islands in the Caribbean, including the Northern Leeward Islands, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. Heavy rains and potential flooding are expected in these areas, although the system is anticipated not to directly impact Cuba.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.