A powerful local storm swept through Las Tunas on Saturday afternoon, marking the year's first severe weather event in the area.
The Provincial Meteorological Center reported that the storm occurred between 3:44 p.m. and 4:20 p.m., featuring hailstones the size of peas, heavy rainfall, and lightning activity.
According to the official report, the intense downpour resulted in more than 30 millimeters of rain in just half an hour over the city of Las Tunas.
Meteorologists attributed the storm to a trough over the Gulf of Mexico, which brought a southwest to south flow. This, combined with daytime heating, created atmospheric instability in the region.
As of now, local authorities have not reported any material damage or disruptions.
Cuban meteorologist Osmany, known on Facebook as Osmany el tiempo, noted in his update that there is a high likelihood of rain across central and eastern Cuba throughout the weekend. The situation is expected to intensify on Sunday, extending towards the west.
"Some of these storms, primarily developing in the afternoon and early evening, may include electrical discharges," he cautioned.
Weather Patterns and Storm Predictions in Cuba
What caused the severe storm in Las Tunas?
The storm was caused by a trough over the Gulf of Mexico, which combined with daytime heating to create atmospheric instability in the region.
What are the expected weather conditions for Cuba over the weekend?
There is a high probability of rain across central and eastern Cuba, with conditions expected to worsen on Sunday, impacting the western regions as well.