Renowned Cuban meteorologist José María Rubiera Torres was recently spotted enjoying a meal with his wife at a Cuban restaurant in La Coruña, Spain. This sighting was shared via a TikTok video uploaded by user @dianeisygarcia on July 30.
The brief 22-second video captures the restaurant owner noting that the esteemed scientist was visiting the establishment for the third time. He encourages Rubiera to share a message with the Cuban community. "To the public figure Rubiera: this is the third time he has come to my bar. Come on, say something to your Cuban community, Rubiera. Have a great time, I recommend you visit. Here is his wife. Thank you," the person recording the video states.
This marked the first public confirmation of Rubiera's presence in Spain.
The Legacy of the "Hurricane Watcher"
Popularly known as the "hurricane watcher," Rubiera celebrated his 80th birthday in January 2026 and is widely regarded as the most prominent figure in Cuban meteorology. For many years, he led the Forecast Center of the Institute of Meteorology of Cuba and served as the nation's representative to the World Meteorological Organization.
Despite retiring from his formal duties, Rubiera remains active in digital outreach. His YouTube channel, RubieraTiempo, boasts nearly 185,000 subscribers. On July 4, 2026, he launched a weekly podcast titled "Beyond Time," focusing on Earth Sciences, Meteorology, and Astronomy. The debut episode, discussing animal rain, quickly surpassed 116,000 views and garnered over 7,400 likes.
Rubiera's Connection to Spain
Rubiera's ties to Spain are well-established. In October 2018, the Spanish government awarded him the Order of Civil Merit in recognition of his contributions to meteorological science.
Even in retirement, Rubiera has not completely stepped away from the spotlight. In October 2025, he returned to Cuban television to report on Hurricane Melissa, and in June 2026, he published an analysis of Tropical Storm Arthur, warning of potential flooding risks.
Impact on the Cuban Diaspora
Rubiera's popularity among the Cuban diaspora was evident from the enthusiastic reaction at the restaurant, where he was introduced as a "public figure" and invited to speak to "his Cuban community." This gesture reflects the deep affection he inspires among Cubans abroad.
The TikTok video quickly amassed over 66,900 views, 3,728 likes, and 550 shares, underscoring the enduring interest in any public appearance by this storied meteorologist.
FAQs about José Rubiera's Visit to Spain
Who is José María Rubiera Torres?
José María Rubiera Torres is a celebrated Cuban meteorologist known as the "hurricane watcher" and is considered the most prominent figure in Cuban meteorology.
What is José Rubiera doing in Spain?
Rubiera was spotted dining at a Cuban restaurant in La Coruña, Spain, with his wife. This visit was captured in a TikTok video, marking his presence there publicly.
How has José Rubiera contributed to meteorology?
Rubiera led the Forecast Center of the Institute of Meteorology of Cuba and represented the country at the World Meteorological Organization. He continues to engage in digital outreach through his YouTube channel and podcast.