Cuba: Storm system to bring adverse weather conditions July 30-August 1

Event

Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine is forecast to impact Cuba from Thursday, July 30, through Saturday, August 1. As of the National Hurricane Centre's (NHC) latest update at 17:00 (local time) on Wednesday, July 29, the storm system was located 510 km (320 mi) east-southeast of Santo Domingo (Dominican Republic) and tracking west-northwest at 37 kph (23 mph), carrying maximum winds of 75 kph (45 mph). It is forecast to pass south of Puerto Rico on Wednesday night and near or over Hispaniola through Thursday, before approaching eastern Cuba and the southeastern Bahamas on Friday, July 31. The storm is predicted to track close to the eastern coast of Cuba on Friday before heading towards Florida on Saturday. The storm system may strengthen into a tropical storm in the coming days, upon which it will become Tropical Storm Isaias.

Strong winds and heavy rain are expected in parts of Cuba in the coming days, particularly along the eastern coastline, with flooding and landslides possible in affected areas. Associated disruptions to transport and business are also likely during the passing of the storm system.

Context

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from late May through to the end of November, with activity typically peaking in late August and early September. Numerous tropical storms form in the Atlantic Ocean during this period, with most affecting the Caribbean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the east coast of the United States. Although communities in the region are generally well prepared for adverse weather conditions during the hurricane season, severe storms bring a significant risk of flooding and infrastructural damage.

Advice

Individuals in areas forecast to be affected by the storm system are advised to monitor local weather reports, confirm flight reservations, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, anticipate adverse weather and power and transportation disruptions, and remember that running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) is enough to knock over an adult - and never drive through flooded streets; floodwater may also contain wastewater and chemical products.