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The eastern region of Cuba is experiencing a significant increase in rainfall and thunderstorms associated with the circulation of the tropical wave linked to Potential Cyclone Nine, meteorologists and social media reports indicated.
According to specialist Jorge Félix Hernández, areas of heavy and intense rainfall are affecting sectors of Santiago de Cuba, Guantánamo, and Holguín.
Expert Raydel Ruisanchez warned about the need for heightened attention due to the occurrence of showers, rains, and thunderstorms on Friday and into the early hours of Saturday.
In its forecast, it indicated that rainfall could accumulate between 50 and 100 mm in the eastern region, while Santiago de Cuba and Guantánamo could reach between 150 and 200 mm, with localized amounts of 300 to 400 mm in Guantánamo, creating a high risk of flash floods.
On the other hand, the Institute of Meteorology (INSMET) confirmed in its report for this Saturday that the sky will be overcast from Camagüey to Guantánamo, with showers that will intensify in the afternoon and spread to the rest of the central region.
In the western part of the country, cloud cover will be lesser at dawn, although it will also increase partially throughout the day, with isolated showers in the afternoon.
There will be wave activity along the northeastern coast, with a risk of local increases in wind strength and wave height in areas experiencing rain and thunderstorms.
Impact of the rains on the population: testimonies from eastern Cuba
Residents of the eastern region shared their experiences with the rains on social media.
In Contramaestre, Santiago de Cuba, the rainfall began at 2:00 am with thunderstorms.
In Granma, intense rains and numerous thunderstorms have been recorded. In Bayamo since 5:26 AM, in Jiguaní since 4:30 AM, and in Manzanillo since 11:00 PM on Friday.
In Guantánamo, the heavy and sustained rain also began early in the morning.
Residents of areas such as Marcané (Cueto, Holguín), Imías (Guantánamo), Palma Soriano, Tercer Frente, Mangos de Baraguá, and Los Negros (Contramaestre), all located in Santiago de Cuba, reported heavy rainfall.
Meanwhile, some areas of Las Tunas and Holguín reported only light drizzles.
The potential cyclone and its expected impact on the eastern region
The INSMET issued a special warning on Friday for intense rains and thunderstorms from Camagüey to Guantánamo, noting that the tropical wave has a high likelihood of developing into a tropical cyclone north of the eastern region in the next 48 hours.
The interaction of the phenomenon with local and orographic factors has stimulated the formation of heavy rains and thunderstorms in several areas of eastern Cuba.
The tropical wave associated with the low-pressure area identified as #94L was located on Friday near the eastern part of Cuba and the Turks Islands, showing signs of organization and with a high likelihood of developing into a tropical depression as it moves north-northwest over the southwestern Atlantic.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) of the United States has given an 80% probability of cyclonic development within 48 hours, warning of rain, gusty winds, and storm surges in the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Turks and Caicos Islands, and possibly in eastern Cuba.
In summary, the combination of the active tropical wave, local conditions, and interaction with the eastern terrain has created a situation of heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and a risk of flooding, while forecasts continue to closely monitor the potential cyclonic development in the coming days.
Frequently asked questions about the impact of the tropical wave in eastern Cuba
Which provinces are most affected by the tropical wave in Cuba?
The provinces most affected are Santiago de Cuba, Guantánamo, and Holguín. These areas are experiencing heavy rainfall and thunderstorms due to the circulation of the tropical wave associated with Potential Cyclone Nine, with rainfall accumulations that could reach between 150 and 400 mm in some areas, increasing the risk of flooding.
What preventive measures are being taken in Guantánamo in response to the heavy rains?
In Guantánamo, preventive plans have been activated to address intense rainfall and flooding. These measures include safeguarding individuals in vulnerable areas, ensuring the availability of medical equipment and emergency transportation, and protecting food and basic resources. Authorities are also increasing surveillance of rivers and dams.
What is the forecast for the cyclonic development of the tropical wave in Cuba?
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has given an 80% chance of cyclonic development within 48 hours. The tropical wave, identified as #94L, has a high likelihood of evolving into a tropical depression as it moves northwest across the southwestern Atlantic.
How will the tropical wave affect the weather in western Cuba?
In the western part of Cuba, a partial increase in cloudiness is expected during the day, with some isolated precipitation in the afternoon. Although the impact will be lesser compared to the eastern part of the country, the advance of the tropical wave could increase cloud cover and the likelihood of rain in this region.
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