Western Cuba remains under the influence of an anticyclone in the Atlantic that continues to cause rainfall, which is expected to be intense this Thursday, according to reports from the Cuban Institute of Meteorology (INSMET) collected from various points across the island.
"Since this morning, showers, rain, and thunderstorms have been occurring, particularly in southern areas from Artemisa to Sancti Spíritus. These rains can be strong and intense in specific locations," stated meteorologist Raydel Ruisanchez on social media.
According to Ruisanchez, a weather presenter on ARTV in Artemisa and a meteorology specialist in the Mariel Special Development Zone, the rainfall could become intense. "In the last hour, the automatic weather station in Güira de Melena, Artemisa, reported more than 30 mm of rain, which qualifies as intense rainfall," he explained.
This Wednesday, the INSMET Forecast Center warned of the occurrence of rain and thunderstorms in the western part of the country, extending into the evening hours.
It also noted that "cloudy skies will dominate in the western region with some showers, rain, and thunderstorms, extending into the night." Additionally, it highlighted that "in the rest of the country, it will be partly cloudy, with clouds increasing in the afternoon in interior areas with isolated showers."
The anticyclonic influence in the Atlantic and the presence of an upper trough over the Gulf of Mexico, along with tropical waves south of Cuba, are favorable conditions for showers, rain, and thunderstorms.
Moreover, the organization warned of waves from Cabo Cruz to Punta de Maisí, as well as in the south of Guanahacabibes and the Isla de la Juventud. In the rest of the coastal areas, there will be slight waves, except in the central north, where the sea will be calm.
Finally, it noted that areas of showers and thunderstorms could increase the wind strength and wave height.
Understanding the Weather Conditions in Western Cuba
To provide a clearer picture of the weather conditions in western Cuba, here are some commonly asked questions and answers:
What is causing the heavy rains in western Cuba?
The heavy rains are being caused by the influence of an anticyclone in the Atlantic, combined with an upper trough over the Gulf of Mexico and tropical waves south of Cuba.
Which areas are most affected by the rainfall?
The most affected areas are southern regions from Artemisa to Sancti Spíritus, with intense rainfall reported in specific locations such as Güira de Melena.
What warnings has INSMET issued regarding the weather?
INSMET has warned of rain and thunderstorms in the western part of the country extending into the night, with cloudy skies dominating the region. It also warned of waves and increased wind strength in certain coastal areas.