Hurricane Milton, now a Category 5 on the Saffir-Simpson scale, is making its way through the Gulf of Mexico, gaining strength as it heads toward Florida. However, its outer effects could reach the westernmost provinces of Cuba starting Monday night, according to recent meteorological reports.
Authorities have issued warnings for the region, anticipating that tropical storm-force winds may begin to affect areas in Pinar del Río, Artemisa, and Havana. The U.S. National Hurricane Center has projected that strong winds, reaching speeds of 39 mph (62 km/h) or higher, could strike the far western part of Cuba from 8:00 PM on Monday, with peak intensity expected during the early hours of Tuesday.
This region falls within a zone with a 20% to 30% chance of experiencing these winds, posing a moderate risk to infrastructure and the safety of residents. While the eye of Hurricane Milton is moving northwest, well away from Cuba, its outer bands could still bring rain and wind gusts to Pinar del Río, Artemisa, and Havana.
Local officials are advising residents to take precautionary measures, secure their homes, and stay updated on official reports regarding the hurricane's progression. Meanwhile, provinces closer to the center of the island, such as Matanzas and Mayabeque, might also feel some strong wind gusts, although the likelihood is significantly lower, ranging from 5% to 10%.
Eastern Cuba appears to be out of harm's way, facing minimal risk from the hurricane's passage. Cubans in the western areas are urged to follow local authorities' guidance and prepare their homes for potential strong winds or power outages.