Thunderstorms, showers, and rain swept through the province of Artemisa on Monday afternoon, with the most intense activity in areas like Güira de Melena, where a severe storm brought hail the size of chickpeas. "Strong showers, rain, and thunderstorms in the province of Artemisa, reaching severe levels in some locations," reported meteorologist Raydel Ruisánchez.
In Güira de Melena, intense precipitation resulted in 57.6 millimeters of rain in just one hour. Additionally, there were strong lightning strikes and somewhat strong wind gusts, according to the specialist. Ruisánchez explained that these weather conditions were associated with "the significant instability typical of the afternoon, stimulated by a tropical wave passing to the south and favorable conditions in the upper layers of the troposphere."
The Institute of Meteorology had forecasted that the western region, as well as the interior and southern parts of the country, would experience cloudiness, some showers, and thunderstorms on Monday afternoon.
This year, several severe local storms have impacted the western part of the country. In May, intense rains accompanied by hail up to 1.5 centimeters in size fell on Guanajay in Artemisa. Within the same week, a storm toppled trees and caused damage to electrical lines in the Santiago de Las Vegas and Nuevo Santiago districts of Boyeros, Havana.
March also saw severe storms in these two provinces, with torrential rains and hailstorms that left areas of Boyeros in the capital, and Bahía Honda and Guanajay in Artemisa, covered in large chunks of ice. This impressive spectacle left residents astonished.
Understanding the Recent Severe Weather in Artemisa
Given the recent severe weather events in Artemisa, it’s important to address some common questions and concerns regarding these storms and their impact.
What caused the severe weather in Artemisa?
The severe weather in Artemisa was primarily caused by significant instability in the atmosphere, stimulated by a tropical wave passing to the south and favorable conditions in the upper layers of the troposphere.
How much rain did Güira de Melena receive during the storm?
Güira de Melena received an intense precipitation of 57.6 millimeters in just one hour during the storm.
Were there any other significant weather events in Artemisa this year?
Yes, in May, Guanajay experienced intense rains with hail up to 1.5 centimeters in size. Additionally, severe storms in March brought torrential rains and hailstorms to Boyeros, Bahía Honda, and Guanajay.