A tornado hits Alquízar, leaving torn roofs, damaged homes, and downed power lines.

The gusts lasted only a few minutes, but they were enough to tear off roofs, knock down walls, and wreak havoc on several streets in the municipality of Alquízar, in Artemisa. On the afternoon of May 22, between 4:00 and 4:30 p.m., a tornado ripped through the Mayorquín Sur Popular Council, causing significant damage to homes and infrastructure.

Devastating winds in the heart of an urban area

Neighbors reported that the storm moved rapidly for more than half a mile before dissipating. Images shared show twisted zinc sheets in the middle of the streets, tilted electricity poles, and roofs peeled off like paper. Several homes were left exposed to the elements after completely losing their roofs.

In one case, a large sheet of metal flew from one house and landed in front of the door of another, blocking the street and disrupting traffic. On other streets, residents had to go out to collect roof fragments while assessing the damage.

Structural damage and electrical disruptions

According to Meteorological Note No. 1 issued by the Institute of Meteorology (INSMET), partial roof loss, partial wall collapse, and damage to power and telephone lines were reported. The conditions that favored the formation of the tornado included strong daytime heating, high humidity in the lower atmosphere, and local factors that fostered instability.

In addition to the destructive winds, the event was followed by intense rain and thunderstorms, further complicating the situation in the municipality.

The phenomenon was visible from several points

Photos taken by residents clearly show the formation of the funnel on the horizon, with a column of earth and air swirling violently as it moved forward. The wind was so intense that several people took refuge in their homes or doorways after noticing the gusts lifting heavy objects.

The storm caused no fatalities or serious injuries, according to preliminary reports, although material damage was significant to the roofs of modest homes, some of which were already showing signs of deterioration before the storm.

The community responds immediately

After the tornado hit, residents took to the streets to help those who had lost part of their homes. Some carried twisted sheets of metal, while others improvised solutions to cover the gaps left by the wind.

The population remains on alert for further storms, while crews assess the damage and local authorities are expected to organize support for affected families.