Severe Storms Prompt Red Alert for 14 Cities in Santa Catarina, Brazil
A dangerous weather system is threatening parts of southern Brazil, with the National Institute of Meteorology (Inmet) issuing a red alert for 14 cities in Santa Catarina state. Residents are bracing for potentially destructive storms, including heavy rainfall and powerful winds.
The Inmet placed the cities on red alert Friday, warning of rainfall potentially reaching up to 100 millimeters per day and wind gusts of up to 100 kilometers per hour. The alert is in effect between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. local time for municipalities in the Far-West region of Santa Catarina. The forecast also indicates a risk of hail, which could exacerbate the potential for damage.
The severe weather isn’t limited to Santa Catarina, with alerts also extended to cities in Paraná and Mato Grosso do Sul states. Authorities are urging residents to take immediate precautions.
Cities Under Red Alert in Santa Catarina:
- Anchieta
- Pretty Bar
- Campo Yes
- Guaraciaba
- DionÃsio Cerqueira
- Guarujá do Sul
- Sole Palm
- Paradise
- Princesa
- Romelândia
- San Bernardino
- Saint Therese of Progress
- São José do Cedro
- São Lourenço do Oeste
Civil Defense Recommendations for Staying Safe
Local civil defense authorities are emphasizing the importance of preparedness and caution. Residents are advised to seek shelter indoors, away from windows and any objects that could become projectiles during the storms. In the event of strong winds, travel should be avoided, and individuals should refrain from seeking shelter near trees, signs, walls, or power lines.
Specific recommendations include:
- Never attempt to cross flooded streets or submerged bridges and culverts during periods of intense rainfall.
- Avoid all water-related activities, including sailing, fishing, and sea bathing. Walking or cycling along the coast is also discouraged if waves are impacting bike paths.
- If winds intensify, immediately seek a secure, sheltered location, away from potential hazards like trees and power lines.
Recent Storms Highlight Vulnerability
The current alert follows a series of damaging storms earlier in the week. On Wednesday afternoon, a powerful storm swept through Greater Florianópolis, transforming daylight into near-darkness within minutes. The Military Fire Department responded to 11 incidents related to fallen trees, with additional reports still under investigation.
In Florianópolis, a large tree collapsed onto Avenida Mauro Ramos, a major thoroughfare, causing significant traffic delays. Another tree fell on a taxi in the Beira-Mar Norte area, blocking a lane and knocking out traffic signals. While initial reports suggested a potential victim inside the taxi, this was later unconfirmed. Further tree falls were reported in the Cacupé and Capoeiras neighborhoods, and firefighters responded to a tree posing a risk to a residence in Córrego Grande. No injuries have been reported at this time.
The escalating frequency and intensity of these weather events underscore the growing vulnerability of communities in southern Brazil to the impacts of severe storms. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and heed the warnings issued by authorities.
