The Forecast Center of the Cuban Meteorological Institute (INSMET) has issued Tropical Cyclone Warning No. 13 to report on the trajectory and impact of Hurricane Rafael, currently located over Cabañas Bay, in the province of Artemisa.
This powerful cyclone, which entered Cuban territory this afternoon through Playa Majana around 4:20 pm, is preparing to go out to sea in the next few hours.
With maximum sustained winds of 170 km/h, the hurricane has dropped to category two on the Saffir-Simpson scale and has a minimum central pressure of 962 hPa. At six in the afternoon, the center of Rafael was located at 23.0 degrees north latitude and 83.0 degrees west longitude, moving towards the northwest at a speed of 22 km/h.
Impact on Cuba: Rains and Strong Winds
During the last few hours, Hurricane Rafael has generated numerous rains, showers and thunderstorms in the central and western regions of Cuba. The accumulated rainfall in the next 24 hours is estimated between 100 and 200 millimeters, with the possibility of being higher in some areas, which represents a risk of flooding.
The Mariel meteorological station, Artemisa, recorded heavy rain of 121.8 mm between 9 am and 5 pm, of which 78.6 mm occurred between 4 and 5 pm. In addition, maximum sustained winds of 130 km/h with gusts of up to 186 km/h were reported. At the Casablanca station, Havana, sustained winds of 90 km/h and gusts of 120 km/h were reported, reflecting the strength of the hurricane in the western zone.
Conditions for the Next Hours
The winds will continue to blow from the southeast to the south in the west and center of the country, with speeds of 70 to 85 km/h and higher gusts. In the provinces of Mayabeque, Artemisa and Pinar del Río, hurricane-force winds, of 135 to 150 km/h with higher gusts, could persist during the early hours of the night.
Strong swells are also expected on the central and western south coast, with waves of 5 to 7 meters and flooding on the southern coast of Sancti Spíritus, Cienfuegos and Matanzas. In Mayabeque, Artemisa, Pinar del Río, Isla de la Juventud and the Canarreos archipelago, flooding will be more severe. After the hurricane exits the sea, strong storm surges are expected on the northern coast of the western region, especially in Artemisa and Pinar del Río, with the risk of moderate to strong coastal flooding.
Security Recommendations
The Cuban Meteorological Institute urges the population to stay informed and follow the instructions of local authorities, given the critical conditions that Hurricane Rafael presents for the west and center of the country.
The next tropical cyclone warning will be issued at 9:00 pm today, Wednesday.
#Hurricane #Rafael #sea
**Interview with Dr. Elena Rodriguez, Meteorologist at INSMET**
**Host:** Welcome, Dr. Rodriguez. Thank you for joining us today to discuss Hurricane Rafael. It seems that the storm has made quite an impact on Cuba. Can you give us an update on the current situation?
**Dr. Rodriguez:** Thank you for having me. Yes, Hurricane Rafael has indeed caused significant weather disturbances across the central and western regions of Cuba. As of this afternoon, it has entered Cuban territory with maximum sustained winds of 170 km/h and has downgraded to a category two hurricane. Although it is less intense than before, we are still experiencing heavy rains and strong winds.
**Host:** What are the expected rainfall totals, and how does that affect the risk of flooding?
**Dr. Rodriguez:** Meteorological models indicate that we can expect between 100 to 200 millimeters of rainfall over the next 24 hours, with localized areas potentially receiving even more. This heavy rain significantly increases the risk of flooding, particularly in low-lying regions. The Mariel meteorological station has already recorded 121.8 mm of rain, highlighting how quickly conditions can deteriorate.
**Host:** How is the Cuban government responding to the hurricane’s impact?
**Dr. Rodriguez:** The government has issued Tropical Cyclone Warning No. 13 and is actively monitoring the situation. They are coordinating with local authorities to ensure proper emergency responses, including preparation of shelters and dissemination of information to the public about safety measures.
**Host:** What should residents in the affected areas do to stay safe?
**Dr. Rodriguez:** Residents are advised to stay indoors, avoid non-essential travel, and monitor local news for updates. It’s crucial to have an emergency kit ready—this includes water, food, flashlights, and any necessary medications. It’s also essential to heed any evacuation orders if they are issued.
**Host:** Thank you, Dr. Rodriguez, for your insights. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by Hurricane Rafael, and we hope for their safety as the storm continues to move through the region.
**Dr. Rodriguez:** Thank you, and let’s all remain vigilant and support each other during this time.
