On Monday afternoon, residents of Cárdenas in the Matanzas province captured images of an unusual atmospheric formation resembling a waterspout over the bay's waters, around 4:52 PM.
Henry Delgado Manzor, an aeronautical meteorologist and member of the Cuban Meteorology and Speleology Societies, reported these sightings on the Meteorología_Cuba Facebook group. He noted, "Social media users reported spotting a waterspout this afternoon at approximately 4:52 PM in Cárdenas Bay, Matanzas province."
Independent journalist Christian Arbolaez shared several photographs of the event, describing the images as showing "a funnel-shaped column descending from the clouds toward the sea."
Captured from various urban and coastal viewpoints in Cárdenas, the photographs depict a slender, elongated column under a thick layer of gray clouds, visually similar to an atmospheric funnel. However, it is crucial to note the technical distinction: a funnel cloud only qualifies as a waterspout once it makes contact with the water's surface, which the images alone cannot verify.
Comments from local residents provide further insights into the sighting. One neighbor posted photos taken from the Brisas del Mar neighborhood, mentioning, "It lasted about 20 minutes before dissipating."
In June 2025, a waterspout was observed near Varadero, west of the Hicacos Peninsula, lasting roughly ten minutes, according to Delgado Manzor. Earlier, in August 2023, a similar phenomenon was documented near the Maya Lighthouse and the coastal community of Carboneras, also in Matanzas, with an estimated duration of eight minutes, though it did not make landfall.
Cárdenas Bay itself was previously the site of a waterspout in October 2020, linked to a severe local storm, which also did not cause any damage, as reported by Delgado Manzor at that time.
As of the closing of this report, the Cuban Meteorology Institute had not released any official confirmation regarding Monday's event.
Frequently Asked Questions about Waterspout Sightings in Cárdenas
What is a waterspout?
A waterspout is a column of rotating, cloud-filled wind that forms over a body of water, usually appearing as a funnel-shaped cloud. It becomes a waterspout when it touches the water's surface.
Has Cárdenas Bay experienced waterspouts before?
Yes, Cárdenas Bay has previously experienced waterspouts, including an occurrence in October 2020 linked to a severe local storm, and another possible sighting in June 2025.
Did the recent waterspout cause any damage?
There have been no reports of damage caused by the recent waterspout sighting in Cárdenas Bay.