The National Institute of Meteorology (INMET) has issued an orange alert for intense rain across many regions of Brazil, effective from Thursday, December 26, through Friday, December 27, at 10:00 AM. The warning encompasses 11 states: Minas Gerais, Mato Grosso do Sul, Goiás, Mato Grosso, Rondônia, Amazonas, Pará, Tocantins, Maranhão, Piauí, and Bahia, indicating the breadth of this environmental threat.
The alert is prompted by the formation of the first South Atlantic Convergence Zone (ZCAS) of the summer, which is expected to last at least four days, causing considerable rain throughout the Northern, Central-Western, and Southeastern regions of the country. According to INMET, rainfall accumulations could exceed 200 mm over this period, particularly affecting the Southeastern region, which historically faces vulnerabilities due to its dense urban infrastructure.
The forecast predicts heavy rain accompanied by strong winds potentially reaching 100 km/h, prompting concerns over power outages, flooding, fallen trees, and dangerous electrical discharges. "The combination of these factors raises the risk of significant impacts such as power outages, flooding, fallen trees, and electrical discharges," warned INMET officials.
Communities across cities such as Presidente Prudente, São José do Rio Preto, and various locations within the Triângulo Mineiro region are expected to feel the impact of these severe weather conditions. Vulnerable areas include the metropolitan regions of São Paulo, the Vale do Paraíba, and the northern coast of São Paulo.
On December 26 and 27, the effects of ZCAS will be most pronounced, particularly during the afternoon hours when heavy rains may lead to severe flood situations, flash floods, and landslides, especially across the northern and eastern parts of São Paulo and central Minas Gerais. Residents are advised to take immediate action to safeguard their properties and lives.
INMET advises the public to adopt preventive measures: avoid sheltering under trees during wind events, secure loose outdoor items, and disconnect electrical devices to prevent damage from potential surges caused by lightning strikes. Monitoring weather conditions through reliable official channels is also strongly encouraged.
The emergency response teams are on high alert, prepared to assist residents of the affected regions. INMET emphasizes the importance of communication between local authorities and communities to mitigate the adverse effects of such intense rainfall events. Local emergency services, including the fire department and civil defense, are ready to respond quickly to emergencies. For immediate assistance, residents can contact civil defense via 199 and the fire service at 193.
The situation serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of weather patterns inherent to the region. Staying informed and prepared can mean the difference between safety and disaster during these intense climatic episodes.
