As the year comes to a close, Cuba is bracing for a distinctly wintry weather pattern, particularly impacting the western half of the island.
Meteorologists agree that a cold front set to arrive on December 31 will significantly lower temperatures, intensify northern winds, and alter sea conditions.
Meteorologist Raydel Ruisanchez elaborated that in the days leading up to the year's end, high migratory pressure systems have dominated Cuba, fostering a dry and stable air mass.
In this scenario, rain chances remain minimal, with only isolated showers expected.
Daytime temperatures are anticipated to remain pleasantly warm, especially in eastern Cuba, while nighttime lows will continue to be chilly.
However, the weather is set to change with the approach of a new cold front moving through the Gulf of Mexico. This system is projected to advance starting Monday, December 29, reaching western Cuba between December 30 and 31.
The air mass accompanying this front will bring a notable drop in temperature, shaping a wintry end to the year.
According to Ruisanchez, the final day of the year is expected to be distinctly cold in the western region, potentially bringing the season's lowest temperatures yet.
Although the cold front is expected to weaken upon arrival, it may increase the likelihood of rain later on December 30 and into the early hours of December 31.
Despite this, significant rainfall is not anticipated.
Starting December 31, continental-origin high-pressure systems will once again exert their influence.
This atmospheric setup will boost northern winds and heighten wave activity along the northern coast.
Additionally, the cold air mass will become more pronounced, leading to a noticeable drop in maximum temperatures throughout the western parts on that day.
Ruisanchez cautioned that while precise data is still forthcoming, all signs indicate a particularly cold finish and start to the new year in that region of Cuba.
Echoing this sentiment, Christian Muñiz, a Meteorology student at the University of Havana, noted that the year's last cold front will indeed make its presence felt on December 31, bringing a fresh air mass with limited rainfall.
According to his forecast, Cuba will usher in 2026 with cooler temperatures and without significant rain.
The consensus among experts strengthens the anticipation that the year's final day will be marked by chilly conditions, especially in western Cuba, where northern winds and altered sea conditions will also be felt.
Impact of Cold Front on Cuba's New Year
What weather changes are expected in Cuba on December 31?
Cuba is expected to experience a significant drop in temperatures, increased northern winds, and changes in sea conditions as a cold front moves in on December 31.
Will there be significant rainfall on December 31 in Cuba?
Although the cold front may increase the chance of rain, significant rainfall is not anticipated on December 31 in Cuba.
How will the cold front affect sea conditions in Cuba?
The cold front is expected to intensify northern winds, resulting in increased wave activity along Cuba's northern coast.