Severe Storms Threaten Center-West and Southeast Brazil: Inmet Issues Yellow Alert
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A yellow alert for potential danger has been issued by Brazil’s National Institute of Meteorology (Inmet) for several regions in the country’s Center-West and Southeast, warning residents of impending storms. The alert, released on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, remains in effect until 10 a.m. on Wednesday, July 10, 2024, and encompasses municipalities across six states.
Widespread Impact Anticipated
The warning covers a broad geographical area, including portions of Mato Grosso do Sul, Mato Grosso, Goiás, Minas Gerais, São Paulo, and Rio de Janeiro. According to Inmet, the storms are forecast to deliver rainfall between 20 and 30 millimeters per hour, with potential accumulations reaching up to 50 millimeters per day. In addition to heavy rain, residents can expect intense winds gusting between 40 and 60 kilometers per hour, and the possibility of hail.
Specific regions under alert include Eastern Mato Grosso do Sul, the Campinas, Ribeirão Preto, and Piracicaba areas of São Paulo, the Vale do Paraíba Paulista region, Central-South Mato Grosso, Sul Fluminense in Rio de Janeiro, Araraquara and Araçatuba in São Paulo, the Zona da Mata region, and the western parts of Minas Gerais. Several cities are specifically named as being under attention, including Água Clara (MS), Água Comprida (MG), Aguaí (SP), Águas de Lindóia (SP), and Albertina (MG).
Safety Recommendations from Inmet
Brazilian authorities are urging residents in the affected areas to take precautions to ensure their safety during the storms. Key recommendations from Inmet include:
- Avoiding shelter under trees during gusts of wind due to the risk of falling branches or entire trees.
- Recognizing the potential for electrical discharges and avoiding contact with electrical equipment.
- Disconnecting electronic devices to prevent damage from power surges.
- Parking vehicles away from transmission towers and advertising signs, which could be vulnerable to strong winds.
In the event of an emergency, residents are advised to contact Civil Defense at 199 or the Fire Department at 193.
This alert underscores the importance of preparedness in the face of severe weather events. Residents in the affected regions should stay informed of updates from Inmet and local authorities, and prioritize their safety throughout the duration of the warning.
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