The Cuban Meteorological Institute (INSMET) released Tropical Cyclone Alert No. 3 on Sunday, updating the status of Tropical Depression Nine. Although the system has shown little structural change, it has brought heavy rains and thunderstorms to eastern Cuba.
During the night and early morning, the most active areas of the depression were focused over the provinces of Guantánamo and Santiago de Cuba. These regions experienced numerous showers and lightning, some of which were intense and locally severe. The significant rainfall led to flooding, especially in low-lying and mountainous areas.
Current Location and Characteristics
As of 6:00 am, the center of the system was estimated to be located at 23.1 degrees North latitude and 77.3 degrees West longitude, approximately 230 kilometers west-northwest of Isla Grande, Bahamas. The phenomenon is exhibiting maximum sustained winds of 55 km/h with higher gusts and is moving at a speed of 11 km/h in a north-northwesterly direction. Although the depression has not yet reached tropical storm status, INSMET warned that it might intensify within the next 12 to 24 hours.
Forecast for the Coming Hours
Tropical Depression Nine is expected to maintain a similar path, increasing its speed and gaining organization. If its development continues as anticipated, it could become a tropical storm by today or early Monday. The institute emphasized that, regardless of its development, the system will continue to cause atmospheric instability across much of Cuba. This is due to a combination of local factors, high levels of relative humidity, and the complex topography of the eastern region.
As a result, persistent showers, rains, and numerous thunderstorms are forecasted, which could be strong and intense in parts of central and eastern Cuba, particularly in mountainous regions and areas with poor drainage.
Next Update
INSMET announced that the next update regarding this system will be issued at 6:00 pm on Sunday, providing new details about its organization and intensity.
Understanding Tropical Cyclone Alerts in Cuba
What areas are currently affected by Tropical Depression Nine?
The provinces of Guantánamo and Santiago de Cuba are currently experiencing the most active weather conditions due to Tropical Depression Nine.
What impact is the depression having on eastern Cuba?
The depression is causing heavy rains and thunderstorms, resulting in flooding, particularly in low-lying and mountainous regions.
When is the next update from INSMET expected?
The next update from INSMET is scheduled for 6:00 pm on Sunday.