With a scorching 39.2ºC, the Cuban province of Holguín has recorded the highest temperature ever reported in the country for the month of May. The Velazco meteorological station in Holguín hit this milestone on Friday, registering a maximum temperature of 39.2ºC. This new record surpasses the previous high of 38.3ºC set on May 16, according to the state-run portal Cubadebate.
Elier Pila, a researcher associated with the Forecast Center of the Institute of Meteorology of Cuba, pointed out in a recent article that the lack of rainfall following the rainy start of the month in the eastern part of the country is one of the factors contributing to the gradual rise in temperatures. "It's an accumulative effect," he explained.
The country is currently under the influence of high pressure systems and a mass of air with low humidity, leading to the formation of local clouds only in some areas during the afternoons, with the possibility of showers, Pila noted. "However, in cloudless areas, solar radiation hits for more hours, further elevating temperatures and extending high temperatures even into the night. This contributes to a higher thermal sensation," he told the state-run media outlet.
Last Tuesday, an unofficial report indicated that temperatures had reached 40 degrees Celsius in the municipality of Bolivia, in the province of Ciego de Ávila. The dramatic rise in temperatures on the island is occurring amid a wave of power outages, leaving Cubans increasingly desperate as the official start of summer is still over a month away, and the energy crisis continues to worsen.
Understanding the Record-Breaking Heat in Holguín
The recent temperature spike in Holguín has raised many questions about the factors contributing to these extreme conditions. Here are some commonly asked questions and their answers.
What caused the record-breaking temperature in Holguín?
The lack of rainfall, high pressure systems, and a mass of air with low humidity are key factors. Additionally, prolonged solar radiation in cloudless areas contributes to higher temperatures.
How does the energy crisis affect the situation?
The ongoing power outages exacerbate the situation by limiting access to cooling systems, making it difficult for residents to cope with the extreme heat.
What measures are being taken to address the rising temperatures?
So far, there have been no specific measures announced to combat the rising temperatures, adding to the urgency for government action amid the worsening energy crisis.