This was circulated on social networks Thursday October 9, images of a swirl that was formed in the Guatemala City. According to Internet users, the phenomenon was observed in several pointsamong them zones 11 and 12 of the capital.
Witnesses pointed out that the whirlpool continued for a few seconds and it dissolved upon touching the ground.
The National Institute of Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology and Hydrology (Insivumeh) reported, through a statement, that very heavy rains in the capital cityas a consequence of a severe storm.
It was confirmed hail fall in some points, as well as the presence of eddies of considerable sizerare phenomena that respond to the internal currents of cumulonimbus clouds. These clouds generate local storms and convective rains —that is, precipitation accompanied by thunder or electrical discharges.
When a cloud of this type forms, it requires both upward and downward wind circulation. Depending on the level of instability of the atmosphere, the wind inside the cloud can speed up and, in some cases, this acceleration generates phenomena such as whirlpools.
These conditions arise due to the effect of daytime warminghe moisture ingress and the high atmospheric instability.
For the rest of the afternoon and evening, rain could continue. Nevertheless, the formation of new eddies is not expectedalthough they are not ruled out floods, river floods or mass movementsdue to the high saturation of the soils and the possibility of heavy rain.
Ana Gabriela Pérez, Insivumeh weather forecasterexplained that, although whirlpools are not common in the city, “During the season, the presence of severe local storms has been mentioned, and that was precisely what happened this afternoon. There is high instability in the atmosphere, and that can generate this type of phenomena. In this case, the whirlpool was small,” the specialist clarified.
(Free Press Videos: courtesy of Luis Nuñez and Lilian López in zone 11 of the capital)
When could they represent an emergency and what precautions should the population take?
In general, these eddies are not a big concernstated Pérez. They usually have speeds between 5 and 30 kilometers per hourwhich are not considered extreme, although can lift loose objectssuch as sheets or materials on terraces and roofs that are not well secured.
In those cases, minor damage could occur. The expert recommended taking the following measures into account:
- If you are on the streetthere may be falling branches or of billboards in poor condition.
- The accelerated wind represents a riskespecially for those who work at height – such as bricklayers or technicians – as it can cause instability and increase the risk of accidents. Avoid these activities during storms.
- Stay indoors until the storm passes. Generally, local storms last no more than an hour. If you are on public roads, take shelter in a safe place.
- Avoid staying outdoors if a whirlpool forms or there is strong wind, especially in areas with objects that can be lifted by the wind.
(Free Press Videos: courtesy of Luis Nuñez and Lilian López in zone 11 of the capital)