Cuba is gearing up to face an unprecedented cold wave that will sweep across the island starting this weekend. Temperatures are expected to plummet to as low as 41°F (5°C) in the country's interior and central regions, a rarity for the Caribbean nation.
Raydel Ruisánchez, a meteorologist, shared on Facebook that since last Tuesday, a large part of Cuba has been under the influence of a very cold and dry air mass, bringing winter-like conditions, especially to the western areas.
He explained that this situation will persist over the coming days, with a new cold front arriving on Saturday, January 31. This front will spread across the island, introducing even colder air.
According to Ruisánchez, this new system will lead to a further drop in temperatures, exacerbating the already existing winter conditions. While significant rainfall is not expected, northwesterly winds ranging from 16 to 25 mph (25 to 40 km/h) with stronger gusts are anticipated.
These winds are forecasted to reach the eastern part of the island by Sunday, causing rough seas along the northwestern coast, with waves up to 13 feet (4 meters) high that could lead to flooding in low-lying coastal areas, including the famed Havana Malecón.
The expert added that from February 1 to 3, the island will experience exceptionally cold days, with temperatures falling below historical averages. Highs could range from 61°F to 66°F (16°C to 19°C) in the west, while lows might drop to around 41°F (5°C) in some interior and southern areas of the west and center.
Meanwhile, meteorologist Ariel Maturell Salina noted that from January 27 through February 3, a sustained winter period will begin, marked by a steep decline in temperatures nationwide. This is attributed to an intrusion of extremely cold air over central and eastern North America and the Gulf of Mexico, which will be reinforced over the weekend by even chillier air from Canada.
Maturell highlighted that even southern U.S. states, the Yucatán Peninsula, and Cuba will experience one of the most intense cold spells in recent years, with unusually low temperatures for these regions. In Cuba, minimums could fall below 50°F (10°C) across much of the island, with afternoon highs barely reaching 66°F to 68°F (19°C to 20°C).
The specialist noted that, depending on cloud cover in Florida and Cuba, temperatures might approach or even break historical records in some parts of the country.
He cautioned that in interior areas of the west and center, where temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C), residents should take precautions as these conditions pose a risk of mild to moderate hypothermia for those unprotected against the cold.
Both meteorologists assured that they will continue to provide updates on the event’s progress through social media and news outlets.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuba's Cold Wave
How low will temperatures drop during this cold wave in Cuba?
Temperatures are expected to drop to as low as 41°F (5°C) in some interior and central regions of Cuba.
What precautions should residents take during the cold wave?
Residents should protect themselves from the cold to prevent mild to moderate hypothermia, especially in areas where temperatures fall below 50°F (10°C).
Will there be any significant precipitation during the cold wave?
Significant rainfall is not expected, but strong northwesterly winds and rough seas are anticipated.