Severe storms have caused widespread disruption across São Paulo and Espírito Santo, leading to significant property damage and numerous alerts from the National Institute of Meteorology (INMET). Recent footage and reports reveal hail damaged roofs and vehicles, with safety recommendations issued to mitigate risks to the public.
According to INMET, alerts were first raised on Monday, December 30, 2024, for Espírito Santo, indicating severe thunderstorms characterized by intense winds and the potential for heavy rain, with forecasts predicting rainfall between 20-60 mm/h. Specifically, 57 cities were under yellow alerts associated with lower risks (notably Afonso Cláudio, Cariacica, and Vitória), signifying rain between 20-30 mm/h, with winds reaching up to 60 km/h.
More critically, 29 municipalities were placed under orange alerts, including major cities like Cachoeiro de Itapemirim and Guarapari, anticipating heavier rain resulting from storms with wind speeds up to 100 km/h. These alerts are valid until 11:59 PM on December 31, 2024, heightening concerns about flooding and damage to agricultural lands.
Meanwhile, the São Paulo metropolitan area experienced its own deluge. Heavy rain accompanied by hail occurred on December 29, affecting areas like Cajamar, where over 150 homes sustained damage. The roofs of several buildings, including parts of shopping centers, collapsed due to the combination of hail and strong winds, with witness reports detailing alarming scenes of destruction.
Cajamar's municipal authorities have been proactive, with the Civil Defense providing emergency supplies such as tarpaulins and cleaning kits to impacted families. Despite these efforts, over 80 residences reported damages as municipal officials expect this number to grow.
Further north, São José dos Campos saw similar havoc, with trees downed and localized flooding affecting neighborhoods, including Jardim Telespark and Santana. Local reports cite around 24 mm of rainfall within just 12 hours, contributing to the soil saturation and increasing the risk for landslides. Observations indicate municipal infrastructures, particularly the roadways, were also impacted.
Weather forecasts predict instability will continue, with the Civil Defense Department urging residents to remain vigilant during this period. They issued advice to steer clear of unstable structures and reported the likelihood of more storms as the year closes.
Emergency protocols highlight the importance of early warning: residents are advised to stay indoors during storms, avoid using electrical devices, and refrain from taking shelter under trees due to potential hazards from lightning or falling branches. Public communication emphasizes monitoring alerts from authorities and taking necessary precautions to stay safe.
For areas currently under alert, the Civil Defense continues to disseminate information widely. Those wishing to receive real-time alerts can text their zip codes to receive weather and safety updates.
Moving forward, authorities are closely monitoring the situation. They particularly caution against complacency, as moderate rainfall may not seem alarming, but the conditions created by prior storms increase the hazards associated with any additional rain.
The storms reflect the broader climatic challenges South America faces, with occasional but intense weather events posing risks to public safety, infrastructure, and agriculture. Only as residents remain informed and vigilant can they weather such turbulent conditions effectively.