On Saturday afternoon, the town of Trinidad in Sancti Spíritus experienced a heavy downpour that transformed its streets into raging rivers. Meteorologist Yosmelvi Páez Cornell issued a warning about the severe weather conditions affecting the city and shared dramatic videos depicting torrents of water sweeping debris and obstructing traffic in several areas of the historic center.
This intense rainfall is part of a widespread atmospheric instability impacting the central region of Cuba. As the tropical wave moves south of the island and shifts eastward, it's anticipated that the rains will lessen in the west, although heavy showers may continue along the southern coast and mountainous areas. Meteorologists caution that such weather events can cause significant runoff in the Guamuhaya mountain range, urging residents to exercise extreme caution.
Flash Flooding Hits Cienfuegos
In the neighboring province of Cienfuegos, sudden floods were reported in several locations on Saturday. The municipality of Cumanayagua saw rivers swell significantly. Severe flooding occurred on Oncena Street, where Communist Party and government officials arrived to "support" affected residents.
Between 8:00 and 10:00 a.m. in the provincial capital, over 52 millimeters of rain fell, classified as locally intense by the Provincial Meteorological Center's Automatic Station. Satellite images revealed a band of storms moving across the island's center, with the most active cells located between Cienfuegos and Sancti Spíritus, predominantly over the southern coast. In Cumanayagua, locals shared photos and videos of thoroughly flooded streets, while local authorities continued to urge the public to avoid reckless actions like crossing swollen streams or rivers.
Heavy Rains in Ciego de Ávila
Ciego de Ávila also reported heavy showers accompanied by thunderstorms starting midday. Meteorologist Frank Fernández Castañeda confirmed the intense rains in the city center and torrential downpours in the Chambas municipality. Social media was flooded with images showing waterlogged streets, overcast skies, and gusty winds. No material damage or casualties have been reported so far, but authorities remain vigilant in areas prone to water accumulation.
The Institute of Meteorology has warned that rainfall could persist due to the ongoing presence of the unstable system in the Caribbean Sea. Precautions are advised, and any risk situations should be reported to local authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Weather Conditions in Cuba
What caused the intense rainfall in Trinidad, Sancti Spíritus?
The intense rainfall in Trinidad was caused by a large area of atmospheric instability affecting central Cuba, with a tropical wave moving south of the island.
How did the weather affect Cienfuegos?
In Cienfuegos, the heavy rains led to flash floods in several areas, with significant river swelling reported in the municipality of Cumanayagua.
Are there any safety recommendations for residents in affected areas?
Residents in affected areas are advised to exercise caution, avoid crossing swollen streams or rivers, and report any hazardous situations to local authorities.