The dangers of thunderstorms are enormous but, in Las Tunas, some people seem not to notice - or not to know it - and risk their lives in a disrespectful challenge to what is known to be the most lethal natural phenomena.
Las Tunas, Cuba.- The subject is often discussed and specialists insist that we should not go against nature because the fragility of human beings is great, especially when faced with the occurrence of these events, which are very common in Cuba during these months.
In Las Tunas, several recent afternoons have been darkened by threatening clouds, and the distant rumble of thunder could be heard. While most people hurried to reach their destination, others prepared to venture out into a risky situation where there was a lot at stake.
Bathing in a downpour is a great pleasure. There is no doubt about it. But there are times and times when thunderstorms have brought mourning to many homes. Various studies carried out by the provincial Meteorological Centre attest to this.
According to these studies, based on the last 30 years, 1,077 people died from lightning, mostly in the wet period from May to October. Specifically, 82 percent of the cases occurred in June, July, August, and September.
By zones, the eastern zone is the most prone to death by lightning strikes. Las Tunas is in seventh place nationally, with 69 deaths. Of the local victims, 37.7 percent were between 15 and 29 years of age, and 57 were male.
The numbers, even if they are simple, hurt. And even more so when an event touches us closely because there were years to live, dreams to realize, and much to contribute. Some deaths could have been avoided. Others could not. However, measures must be taken to avoid risks and minimize the dangers.
Alexey Moreno Borges, deputy technical director of the Meteorological Center, has repeatedly warned that when a storm is approaching, the first thing to do is to take shelter in safe places, away from telephone lines and metal pipes that can conduct electricity.
He added that when you are out in the open, and have nowhere to go, it is suggested that you do not take shelter under trees and it is recommended that you never lie down on the ground. According to the specialist, the best thing to do is to bend downwards, with your feet together and, if possible, let one foot touch the ground.
He said that beaches, rivers, and swimming pools multiply the dangers, as do making phone calls. Finally, he warned that household appliances should also be taken care of and unplugged because the damage caused by these phenomena is enormous.
In September, atmospheric instability is also frequent, with cumulonimbus clouds that favor thunderstorms. In the face of this, precautions for life, family, and material resources in every home and workplace are mandatory.
