Over the past few hours, Oscar has continued its sluggish west-southwest journey across Guantánamo province, now moving at a mere 5 mph (8 km/h) as it downgrades to a tropical storm. Due to its interaction with land, this weather system has weakened further, with maximum sustained winds dropping to 59 mph (95 km/h) and the central minimum pressure rising to 996 hectopascals, as reported in Tropical Cyclone Alert No. 10 by the Cuban Meteorology Institute's Forecast Center.
At 3 a.m., Oscar's center was positioned 15 miles (25 km) east-northeast of Guantánamo City and about 31 miles (50 km) south of Moa, located in Holguín province. The storm is expected to maintain its slow west-southwest and westward path, gradually shifting northwestward by morning. Further weakening of the storm is anticipated during this time.
Heavy Rains and Storm Conditions Persist
Rain, showers, and thunderstorms continue to affect the provinces of Guantánamo, Santiago de Cuba, Holguín, and Las Tunas. The meteorological station at Punta Maisí recorded a rainfall total of 362.2 millimeters (14.3 inches) over the last 24 hours until 2 a.m., while Jamal saw 197.6 millimeters (7.8 inches), both in Guantánamo province.
These precipitation events are expected to persist, with the potential for strong and intense rainfalls, particularly in mountainous areas, accumulating between 100 to 200 millimeters (4 to 8 inches) in the eastern region. Tropical storm-force winds will continue across the eastern provinces, reaching speeds between 47 and 56 mph (75 to 90 km/h), with higher gusts.
Coastal and Inland Impacts
Strong swells will persist along the northeastern coast, especially in Guantánamo and Holguín, gradually extending toward the northern coast of Las Tunas. Moderate to strong coastal flooding remains a threat in low-lying areas of this shoreline, including the Baracoa Malecón. Authorities urge residents in the eastern provinces to remain vigilant regarding Oscar's progression and future path.
Latest Updates from the National Hurricane Center
In its 5 a.m. local time bulletin, the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) reported an even slower pace of movement for Oscar, now tracking at just 2.5 mph (4 km/h). The maximum sustained winds have further decreased to 53 mph (85 km/h). The storm is currently moving westward but is expected to turn northward later today, followed by a faster northeastward movement on Tuesday and Wednesday.