Heavy rainfall is on the horizon for Rio Grande do Norte as the National Institute of Meteorology (INMET) has issued an alert affecting 40 cities, including the state capital, Natal. The warning, classified as yellow—indicating potential danger—will remain valid until 10 am on Monday, February 24. This is the lowest alert level on INMET's scale, which includes orange and red levels for increased risk.
The forecast indicates rainfall between 20 and 30 millimeters per hour, with potential totals reaching 50 millimeters throughout the day. Alongside the rainfall, residents can expect strong winds blowing at speeds ranging from 40 to 60 kilometers per hour. The areas likely to be hit hardest by these weather conditions include regions from both the western and eastern parts of the state, as well as the Central and Agreste regions.
INMET emphasizes the low risk associated with the yellow alert, which suggests limited chances of power outages, fallen branches, flooding, and electric shocks. Nevertheless, residents are urged to take precautions, particularly during wind gusts.
Safety recommendations from INMET suggest avoiding sheltering under trees due to the risk of them falling or being struck by lightning; refraining from parking vehicles near transmission towers or advertising signs; and avoiding the use of plugged-in electronic devices during strong winds.
For more emergency information, the public can contact the Civil Defense at 199 or the Fire Department at 193.
The list of affected municipalities includes major urban centers such as Natal, which has recently faced its share of weather challenges. The cities impacted are as follows: Assú, Afonso Bezerra, Alto do Rodrigues, Apodi, Areia Branca, Baraúna, Bento Fernandes, Caiçara do Norte, Carnaubais, Ceará-Mirim, Extremoz, Galinhos, Governador Dix-Sept Rosado, Grossos, Guamaré, Ipanguaçu, Jandaíra, Jardim de Angicos, João Câmara, Lajes, Macau, Maxaranguape, Mossoró, Natal, Parazinho, Pedra Grande, Pedra Preta, Pedro Avelino, Pendências, Poço Branco, Porto do Mangue, Pureza, Rio do Fogo, São Bento do Norte, São Gonçalo do Amarante, São Miguel do Gostoso, Serra do Mel, Taipu, Tibau, and Touros.
Recent rainfalls earlier this month caused significant disruption across Natal, leading to various public infrastructure issues and concerns among residents about the efficacy of the local drainage systems. While the yellow alert indicates relatively manageable conditions, it still poses challenges for the region's infrastructure and public safety.
Residents are currently advised to stay updated on weather forecasts and adhere strictly to safety measures laid out by the INMET. With the unpredictability of weather conditions, it's always best to err on the side of caution and prepare for potential emergency situations.