As hours pass, new images are surfacing of the so-called "tornado" that struck on Wednesday afternoon, causing material damage to nearly twenty homes in the town of San Antonio de Cabezas, located in the Unión de Reyes municipality, Matanzas.
A brief video posted on social media by Mariely Vázquez captured the meteorological phenomenon in full motion, accompanied by lightning. Although the footage lacks audio, it conveys the sheer terror experienced by the residents of San Antonio de Cabezas, as confirmed by their statements to the local radio.
"I was sitting in the living room when I suddenly heard a noise. I looked out the window and saw everything flying around. It was like a whirlwind, even couches were flying," recalled one resident.
"It was terrifying. I can't even describe it. I was shaking so much I couldn't move from the door," another witness recounted.
A third interviewee noted how quickly it all happened, in just about five minutes. "A neighbor shouted, 'Cuca, run! Something dark is coming towards your house.' My daughter started screaming, 'Mommy, I don't want to die,'” said another local resident, emphasizing how frightened her young daughter was when objects began flying.
Despite the scare, fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported. However, there was material damage to at least 19 homes and other impacts on the electrical grid.
Marixma Miyares, director of the Provincial Meteorological Center, clarified that the damage was due to a "severe local storm" accompanied by strong winds, not a tornado. Yet, those who experienced it firsthand continue to refer to it as a tornado.
Residents confirmed that in some parts of the town, the phenomenon seemed to pass three times and felt incredibly powerful. This is not the first time in recent months that the province of Matanzas has faced such a meteorological event. In December of the previous year, a similar phenomenon hit the municipality of Los Arabos, causing damage to at least 11 homes, although no injuries or fatalities were reported in that instance either.
Key Questions and Answers about the Recent Meteorological Event in Matanzas
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers regarding the recent severe storm in Unión de Reyes, Matanzas, and its impact on the local community.
What caused the damage in Unión de Reyes, Matanzas?
The damage was caused by a "severe local storm" accompanied by strong winds, not a tornado, according to Marixma Miyares, director of the Provincial Meteorological Center.
How many homes were affected by the storm?
At least 19 homes suffered material damage due to the storm.
Were there any injuries or fatalities reported?
Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported.
Has Matanzas experienced similar events recently?
Yes, in December of the previous year, a similar meteorological event struck the municipality of Los Arabos, causing damage to at least 11 homes but no injuries or fatalities.