This past Saturday, meteorologist Raydel Ruisánchez issued a warning regarding adverse weather conditions affecting several regions in Cuba. "Weather Alert: Currently, showers, rain, and thunderstorms are occurring, with some being severe, in the interior areas of Artemisa, south of Havana, and Mayabeque," Ruisánchez announced via his Facebook account.
The meteorologist also confirmed reports of hailstones falling in the Guanajay municipality, located in the province of Artemisa. He advised the public to exercise increased caution due to the potential for severe phenomena such as strong winds, hail, or flash flooding, and to steer clear of open areas to mitigate the risk of lightning strikes. Additionally, Ruisánchez urged people to stay tuned for further updates on the weather's progression in western Cuba.
Meanwhile, meteorologist Ariel Maturell Salina also took to Facebook to alert residents about the escalation of thunderstorms anticipated during the afternoon in the southern regions of Camagüey, northern Granma, and Santiago de Cuba, as well as within Artemisa, Mayabeque, and southern Havana. "Remember to stay protected against lightning strikes," he emphasized.
In late March, Cuba faced a series of severe weather events impacting several localities across the nation. On March 26, hail fell during intense local storms—a rare occurrence in the region—sparking concern among the population. That same day, an impressive hailstorm severely impacted a Cuban municipality, causing significant material damage. Images and eyewitness accounts highlighted the event's magnitude, showing streets blanketed in ice and structures damaged by the hailstones' impact.
The day ended with reports of a severe local storm leaving destruction in its wake. Numerous rooftops were damaged, and trees were toppled by strong winds and heavy rain, further complicating the situation in the affected communities.
Understanding Severe Weather in Cuba
What caused the recent hailstorm in Artemisa?
The hailstorm in Artemisa was caused by a combination of atmospheric conditions that led to severe thunderstorms, resulting in hailstone formation.
How can residents prepare for severe weather in Cuba?
Residents should stay informed about weather updates, secure outdoor items, avoid open areas during storms, and have an emergency plan in place.
Why are hailstorms rare in Cuba?
Hailstorms are rare in Cuba due to the typically warm climate, which usually doesn't support the cold upper-air conditions needed for hail formation.