Residents in eastern Cuba woke up to overcast skies and scattered showers on Friday, marking the beginning of deteriorating weather conditions due to the advance of a highly active tropical wave. This system is already causing rainfall and thunderstorms in several areas. Experts caution that in the coming hours, the phenomenon could develop into a low-pressure system and potentially escalate into a tropical depression or storm near the Bahamas.
Cuban meteorologist Raydel Ruisanchez indicated on Facebook that cloud cover and rainfall have intensified in the eastern region, with expected rainfall amounts ranging from 50 to 100 millimeters within 24 hours. In isolated areas, these figures might be exceeded. Ruisanchez also warned of increased wind speeds and wave heights in the storm-affected regions.
The Provincial Meteorological Center of Ciego de Ávila confirmed early in the morning the influence of the system, located at 73°W over Hispaniola, with its cloudiness already impacting Cuba’s eastern region. According to the center, a low-pressure area is anticipated to form over the next 24 to 48 hours, potentially developing into a tropical cyclone.
Special Weather Alerts Issued
In response to this situation, the Institute of Meteorology (INSMET) has issued a Special Warning for strong and intense rains, as well as thunderstorms from Camagüey to Guantánamo. The INSMET detailed that the system, which had already affected the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico by Thursday, will move west-northwest, potentially organizing into a broad low-pressure zone near the Bahamas in the coming hours.
The warning noted that starting Friday, numerous showers and thunderstorms are expected in the eastern region throughout the weekend, with some areas experiencing heavy and intense rainfall.
Tropical Wave Monitored for Cyclonic Potential in the Caribbean
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) in the United States reported that the system, designated as AL94, is showing signs of organization and could quickly develop into a tropical depression. The NHC has given it an 80% chance of cyclonic development within 48 hours and a 90% chance within seven days as it moves northwest over the southwestern Atlantic. The system could bring rain and wind gusts to the Dominican Republic, Haiti, the Turks and Caicos Islands, and possibly eastern Cuba.
Despite lingering uncertainty regarding the system's final trajectory, experts agree that the immediate threat to Cuba is the potential for heavy rainfall.
Guantánamo Takes Precautionary Measures
Guantánamo, Cuba’s easternmost province, has activated precautionary plans in anticipation of heavy rains and potential flooding over the weekend, linked to the advancing tropical wave in the eastern Caribbean. Carlos Román González, director of the Provincial Meteorological Center, noted that although the system is not yet organized, its proximity and abundant regional moisture will increase the likelihood of rainfall in eastern Cuba in the coming days.
In light of the situation, Yoel Pérez García, the first secretary of the Party in Guantánamo, and governor Alis Azahares Torreblanca, have ordered the review and implementation of flood protection plans. These measures include ensuring the safety of residents in vulnerable areas, securing medical equipment and emergency transport, reinforcing surveillance of rivers and reservoirs, and safeguarding food, fuel, and other essential resources.
Civil Defense Warns of Flooding and Landslide Risks
Cuba's Civil Defense issued an informational note emphasizing the need for heightened hydrometeorological monitoring, especially in areas prone to flooding and landslides. It reminded that the saturation of soils following months of prolonged drought in the east increases community vulnerability to intense rainfall.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Tropical Wave Impacting Cuba
What is the current status of the tropical wave affecting Cuba?
The tropical wave is showing signs of organization and may develop into a tropical depression or storm soon, with impacts expected in the Bahamas and potentially eastern Cuba.
What precautions are being taken in Guantánamo?
Guantánamo has activated precautionary measures including flood protection plans, ensuring the safety of residents in vulnerable areas, and securing necessary resources.
How likely is the tropical wave to develop into a cyclone?
The National Hurricane Center has given the system an 80% chance of cyclonic development within 48 hours and a 90% chance within seven days.