As Tropical Depression Nine looms, bringing adverse weather conditions, Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel has called for "caution and discipline" from the public. This tropical system is already causing heavy rainfall across Cuba and has the potential to escalate into a storm or even a hurricane in the coming days.
The regime's representative took to social media to affirm ongoing communication with the top officials of the eastern provinces, which are already experiencing severe rainfall. He noted that directives have been issued to safeguard both the population and material resources.
In his statement, Díaz-Canel emphasized the need for political and administrative coordination "across territories" and urged citizens to exercise extreme caution. The official report highlights efforts made to protect individuals and property, with local structures implementing necessary measures. The communication concludes with a commitment to continuous monitoring of the weather situation and responsive actions at the local level.
According to the 11:00 a.m. Eastern time advisory, Tropical Depression Nine is exhibiting maximum sustained winds of 34 mph (55 km/h) and is moving northwest at 8 mph (13 km/h). The National Hurricane Center (NHC) warned that the system is expected to intensify, bringing tropical storm conditions to parts of central and northwestern Bahamas by Sunday night.
Rainfall linked to the depression will persist over the weekend in Cuba, Jamaica, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic, posing a high risk of flash flooding and urban inundations, as well as landslides in mountainous areas. The center also cautioned about a significant threat of heavy rain from early next week along the U.S. east coast, especially in Georgia, the Carolinas, and the Mid-Atlantic region, where river flooding could occur.
If the current trend continues, the depression is anticipated to reach near-hurricane strength as it approaches southeastern Florida and neighboring states. Although the depression's center is heading into the Atlantic, eastern Cuban provinces remain heavily affected by its cloud bands and rainfall.
Impact of Tropical Depression Nine on Cuba and the Region
What actions has Díaz-Canel recommended for the public?
Díaz-Canel has advised the public to act with caution and discipline in response to the approaching tropical depression.
What are the expected impacts of Tropical Depression Nine in the region?
The region is expected to experience heavy rainfall, flash flooding, urban inundations, and landslides in mountainous areas, especially affecting Cuba, Jamaica, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic.
How is the Cuban government responding to the tropical depression?
The Cuban government has been issuing directives to protect people and resources, ensuring coordination between political and administrative bodies, and monitoring the situation closely.