A storm system sweeping through Barueri, São Paulo, led to the shocking collapse of the roof at the Barbosa Supermarket on December 30, 2024, injuring several patrons. The incident, which occurred around 2:30 PM during heavy rain and hail, raised immediate safety concerns and sparked emergency responses.
According to reports, the roof began showing signs of strain prior to the failure. Employees and customers evacuated the area shortly before the structure gave way. Fortunately, the quick actions taken helped avoid more severe injuries. The municipal authorities later confirmed, "The victims were lightly injured as they left the area before the roof collapsed."
Eyewitness accounts captured the chaos as the roof crumbled, with videos circulating on social media illustrating the moment of collapse. Shouts of alarm from frightened shoppers rang out as the structure came down. The Fire Department acted swiftly, arriving on the scene just after the collapse, and found at least four women had sustained minor injuries. These included contusions and bruises, with reports indicating, "Both women were conscious and were sent to the local emergency room," highlighting the prompt medical assistance provided.
Local emergency services remained on site for hours to assess the situation, alongside officials from the Civil Defense who began investigating the conditions leading to the incident. The area surrounding the supermarket was cordoned off for safety as experts evaluated potential structural risks to the building and its surroundings. A spokesperson for the supermarket stated they are committed to diligently evaluating damage and enforcing necessary repairs to prevent future occurrences.
This incident not only raised concerns about construction integrity amid severe weather patterns but also highlighted the broader risks faced during particularly harsh storms. Earlier on the same day, the Brazilian federal meteorological agency had issued warnings about strong winds, hail, and other hazardous conditions. Reports suggested other areas surrounding Barueri experienced similar weather-related challenges, with reports of hail and damaging winds also affecting vehicles and properties.
The storms have caused devastation across various locations, especially with hailstones reported to be large enough to shatter windows and dent cars. Videos showcasing the aftermath of brutal conditions have been shared widely via social media, depicting damaged structures and significant debris on roadways.
Residents and local authorities are now bracing for possible follow-up storms, as the meteorological services conveyed, with December 2024 already experiencing rainfall levels above average for the month. The accumulation of 214.4 mm of rain so far this month is noted to exceed the expected monthly total of 182.9 mm by 17%.
Officials are reminding the public to remain vigilant during severe weather. Among the recommendations is to avoid traveling during storms and to take shelter indoors at the first sign of tempestuous conditions to mitigate risks associated with falling debris or collapsing structures.
Community members have shown solidarity with those affected by the collapse, with many sharing messages of support and safety tips across social media platforms. The resilient spirit of Barueri remains strong as residents focus on recovery and preparation for future weather events.
The situation continues to develop, with investigative teams looking closely at the conditions and maintenance protocols of the supermarket. Local officials will provide updates as investigations advance and safety audits are conducted to assure public safety for events like these.