Intense rains on Saturday in eastern Cuba caused significant flooding in Jobabo, Las Tunas, with accumulated water submerging homes and state institutions. A social media post by Yaidel Miguel Rodríguez Castro, a journalist for the state-run Radio Cabaniguán of Jobabo, shared images of the flooding in this town of nearly 50,000 residents.
“We'll have to check the rain gauge readings later, but it's rained quite a bit in Jobabo. At least in the town center, the impact of the downpour is evident... Water is entering homes and state institutions,” reported Rodríguez Castro.
The day before, the National Institute of Meteorology (INSMET) had warned in its weather forecast of "storm activity and very heavy rainfall" in eastern Cuba. Additionally, it noted "configurations with values that could generate severe weather in some areas of Camagüey and Ciego de Ávila."
The images shared by Rodríguez Castro showed streets completely flooded in the Las Tunas area, with water entering homes and institutions like the municipal Casa de Cultura.
Similarities with Previous Severe Storms
The storm in Jobabo shares meteorological characteristics with a severe local storm that caused heavy flooding in several parts of Las Tunas on Saturday, August 17. This previous storm also resulted in damage to electrical installations and agricultural crops.
According to a report from the Cuban News Agency (ACN) in the Las Tunas area, the storm was accompanied by "strong winds, lightning, and a locally intense rain accumulation of 133.5 millimeters (mm)." The meteorological station in the provincial capital of Las Tunas recorded 79 mm of rainfall and a wind gust of 73 km/h. The weather event left striking images of flooding in the city of Las Tunas.
Followers of independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada sent a video showing the waters flowing through the city. The footage was filmed in the La Loma neighborhood, very close to the provincial bus terminal, noted the journalist. He also mentioned that the rains caused flooding on Calle 48 between 67 and Waldemar Díaz.
Meteorological experts pointed out that the local storm formed due to favorable conditions and intense daytime heating, with a maximum temperature of 35.0 degrees Celsius during the day. They also highlighted the significant lightning strikes that were sustained for more than two hours during the rain's peak intensity.
Understanding the Impact of Severe Weather in Las Tunas
The following questions and answers provide more insight into the recent severe weather events in Las Tunas, focusing on the causes and effects of the flooding.
What caused the recent flooding in Jobabo, Las Tunas?
The recent flooding in Jobabo, Las Tunas, was caused by intense rains that led to significant water accumulation in streets, submerging homes and state institutions.
How did the National Institute of Meteorology (INSMET) respond to the weather conditions?
INSMET had warned of storm activity and very heavy rainfall in eastern Cuba. They highlighted the potential for severe weather in certain areas, including Camagüey and Ciego de Ávila.
What were the meteorological characteristics of the recent storm in Jobabo?
The recent storm in Jobabo featured strong winds, lightning, and intense rain accumulation. The meteorological station recorded significant rainfall and wind gusts.