On Friday, August 8, the city of Las Tunas experienced an unprecedented rainfall record for a 24-hour period in August. According to the Cuban News Agency (ACN), a remarkable 118.4 millimeters (mm) of rain was measured at the city's Meteorological Station, surpassing the previous record set in 1998 when 111 mm was recorded. This information was confirmed by Alexei Moreno, the technical director of the station.
The downpour led to flooding in several low-lying areas, including streets named Camilo Cienfuegos, René Ramos, José Martí, and Joaquín Agüero. The latter area is historically known by locals as "Ahogapollos." Despite this significant rainfall, which offers some relief to the province known for being the driest in Cuba with an average annual rainfall of 1,038 mm, it does not resolve the severe drought conditions affecting the region.
While the rainfall has helped replenish reservoirs that supply water to the capital city's aqueduct network, it remains insufficient. Approximately 80,000 residents face frequent disruptions in their water supply. The main reservoirs continue to face critical conditions. For instance, the El Rincón dam, the primary water source with a 20 million cubic meter capacity, is currently pumping only 250 mm per second, half of the planned output. Similarly, the smaller Cayojo reservoir and the underground La Cana basin are also experiencing declines.
The persistent drought in Las Tunas has significantly impacted the daily lives of its residents, exacerbated by outdated infrastructure. In May, Piedad Herrera Núñez, the municipal director of Aqueduct and Sewerage, acknowledged the "tense" situation and urged households and workplaces to conserve water. Earlier that month, severe local storms brought heavy rains, hail, and strong winds to several parts of the province. On May 3, such weather conditions caused extensive damage to homes and the electrical system in a town within the municipality of Puerto Padre.
Key Questions on Las Tunas' Rainfall and Drought
What was the new rainfall record set in Las Tunas?
Las Tunas set a new rainfall record with 118.4 mm of rain in 24 hours, surpassing the previous record of 111 mm set in 1998.
How does the recent rainfall affect the drought situation in Las Tunas?
While the rainfall has helped replenish some water supplies, it is not sufficient to resolve the severe drought affecting the region, as the main reservoirs remain critically low.
What measures are being taken to address water shortages in Las Tunas?
Local authorities have urged residents and businesses to conserve water as much as possible to cope with the ongoing water shortages.