Hurricane Rafael hits western Cuba: maximum alert in Artemisa and Havana

The Cuban Institute of Meteorology has issued an emergency warning for the western provinces of the country due to the entry of Hurricane Rafael into the province of Artemisa, specifically near Playa Majana, around 4:25 pm.

This system, which brings strong winds and heavy rains, is moving northwest and is expected to reach the sea between 7:00 and 8:00 pm at some point between Bahía Honda and Cabañas.

At 5:00 pm, the hurricane's position was 5 kilometers southwest of the city of Artemisa and about 55 km southwest of Havana. With maximum sustained winds of 175 km/h and a minimum central pressure of 958 hPa, the weather phenomenon is moving at a speed of 22 km/h. At José Martí International Airport, located in Havana, sustained winds of 55 km/h and gusts reaching 110 km/h were reported, demonstrating the hurricane's strength in the region. Additionally, warnings have been issued about the possible formation of tornadoes in areas of Artemisa, specifically from Bahía Honda to Bauta and San Antonio de los Baños.

6:00 pm Update: Rafael begins to head out to sea

At 6:00 pm, the center of Hurricane Rafael was located near Cabañas Bay, in Artemisa, 25 km west of Mariel and about 65 km west of Havana. Maximum sustained winds have been recorded at 170 km/h with a minimum central pressure of 962 hPa.

At the Mariel weather station, sustained winds of 130 km/h and a gust of 186 km/h were reported. Additionally, the probabilities of embedded tornadoes remain in the province of Artemisa, with emphasis on the areas between Mariel, Guanajay, and San Antonio de los Baños.

The authorities and the Cuban Institute of Meteorology have urged the population to stay sheltered, as despite possible periods of calm, the danger persists due to intense winds and heavy rains affecting the region. The situation remains critical in the western part of the country, and it is essential that all citizens stay alert to updates and comply with the recommended safety measures.

The entire population of the western region of Cuba is advised to stay informed and follow the instructions of local authorities to ensure their safety in the face of the ongoing threat of this powerful hurricane.