The Cuban Maritime Administration (CMA) has announced the suspension of maritime navigation in the Batabanó Gulf starting this Tuesday, citing deteriorating weather conditions.
The state-run organization stated that all maritime activities are to be halted from midnight on November 11 due to worsening hydrometeorological conditions in the bay. This situation jeopardizes the safety of voyages and port operations in Batabanó, located in Mayabeque province, as well as in Nueva Gerona and Cayo Largo del Sur, situated in the special municipality of Isla de la Juventud.
"This measure will remain in effect until the weather conditions improve," emphasized the CMA in a statement released on Monday.
The administration also mentioned that it will continue to monitor the development of this situation and will notify the public once maritime navigation can safely resume in the area.
Weather Forecast and ImpactsThe Cuban Institute of Meteorology's Forecast Center (INSMET) has warned that the second cold front of the 2025-2026 winter season is expected to reach western Cuba by Monday morning, causing a shift in weather patterns. It is anticipated to arrive in the central region by late afternoon or early evening.
The weather forecast for Tuesday indicates minimum temperatures ranging from 17 to 20 degrees Celsius in the western and central regions, while the eastern areas will see temperatures between 20 and 23 °C. During the afternoon, maximum temperatures are expected to be between 20-23 °C in the west and center, and between 24-27 °C in the east.
INSMET predicts strong swells along the northwestern coast, with minor flooding expected in low-lying areas, including Havana's Malecón. The central and eastern north coasts will experience waves increasing to swells by morning. The southern coast of eastern Cuba will see light waves, while the remainder of the southern coast will experience moderate waves.
Winds will blow from the north to northeast at speeds of 20 to 35 kilometers per hour, reaching up to 40 km/h in northern and central coastal areas, with higher gusts. In the east, winds will be weak and variable, shifting to the north-northeast by late morning, with speeds of 10 to 25 km/h, and up to 30 km/h along the north coast, with stronger gusts.
Key Questions on Batabanó Gulf Navigation Suspension
Why has navigation in the Batabanó Gulf been suspended?
The Cuban Maritime Administration suspended navigation due to worsening hydrometeorological conditions that pose safety risks to maritime activities and port operations.
What is the expected weather impact in Cuba due to the cold front?
The cold front is expected to bring lower temperatures, strong swells along the north coast, and variable winds, affecting weather patterns across the western and central regions of Cuba.