Severe weather alerts have been issued across Brazil, with the Instituto Nacional de Meteorologia (INMET) declaring orange alerts for storms and heavy rain affecting seven states. This warning, which indicates "danger," was released on Friday, December 20, 2023, and predicts significant weather events including strong winds gusting up to 100 km/h and potential hail.
The states directly impacted by the orange alert include Goiás, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais, Paraná, Rio de Janeiro, and São Paulo. According to INMET, these areas could experience up to 100 mm of rainfall throughout the day, raising concerns over flooding, power outages, and damage to crops and infrastructure. Regions across these states are advised to prepare for possible downed trees and electrical outages as conditions worsen.
Beyond the orange alerts, INMET has also issued yellow alerts—signifying "potential danger"—for ten additional states and the Federal District. These states include Acre, Amazonas, Bahia, Espírito Santo, Maranhão, Pará, Piauí, Rondônia, Santa Catarina, and Tocantins. Residents can expect wind speeds of about 60 km/h and rainfall near 50 mm, which may also pose safety hazards.
"Risco de corte de energia elétrica, estragos em plantações, queda de árvores e de alagamentos," stated INMET, highlighting the possible dangers residents face during the severe storms. The organization has recommended numerous precautions: disconnecting electrical appliances, avoiding shelter under trees during wind storms, and steering clear of areas near transmission towers or large signage during high winds. It is also advised to store belongings in plastic bags if flooding occurs.
Specific warnings were also issued for metropolitan areas, including Belo Horizonte and surrounding municipalities within Minas Gerais, where heavy rainfall is forecasted to affect about 498 cities. The alert is active through Saturday morning, and the heavy rain could cause disruptions and hazards similar to those anticipated across the orange alert states.
All regions of São Paulo have entered a state of alert, as heavy rainfall is anticipated there as well. The Centro de Gerenciamento de Emergências of the city reported the need for residents to stay alert for potential flooding. Alongside severe weather precautions, local emergency numbers were shared so residents can quickly reach out for assistance if needed. "Em caso de emergências, acione a Defesa Civil pelo telefone 199 e o Corpo de Bombeiros pelo 193," INMET advised, emphasizing the importance of being prepared.
While warnings are rampant for storms, it is noteworthy to mention the concurrent low humidity alerts, issued for eight northeastern states including Alagoas, Bahia, Ceará, Paraíba, Pernambuco, Piauí, Rio Grande do Norte, and Sergipe. These regions are experiencing significantly low humidity, falling between 30% to 20%. Officials recommend residents stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities during the hottest hours, and seek shade to avoid heat-related issues.
The situation across Brazil signifies a precarious balance of weather extremes, requiring vigilance and readiness among the populace. Authorities remain focused on ensuring public safety through timely communications and advisories during these turbulent weather conditions.
Residents are encouraged to stay tuned to official weather reports and follow guidance from local emergency services to navigate the upcoming severe weather effectively.
