An unexpected hailstorm swept through Campos dos Goytacazes on the afternoon of October 1, 2023, catching many residents off guard. The storm began around 14:50 and lasted approximately 15 minutes, leaving behind videos and images circulating rapidly on social media, showcasing the unusual weather event.
Neighborhoods including Caju, Flamboyant, Parque Tamandaré, and Pq Guarus witnessed the rare phenomenon, with some locals expressing their amazement at the sight of hail, which is not commonly seen in this region. The footage uploaded online documented the moment, amplifying the collective surprise of the community.
According to meteorologist Carine Gama from Climatempo, "Granizo são pedras de gelo que se formam em nuvens de grande extensão vertical." This expert insight provides clarity on the rare occurrence, explaining how hail stones develop within extensive cumulonimbus clouds. She elaborated, stating, "É normal uma tempestade vir com granizo e ventos fortes depois de um dia muito quente," indicating the conditions favorable for such storms typically arise after particularly hot weather.
The meteorological phenomenon occurs when these clouds, known for having parts with temperatures below freezing, form large ice particles. When strong upward currents within these cumulonimbus clouds can no longer hold the ice stones aloft and they become too heavy, they fall, often accompanied by powerful winds.
Prior to the hailstorm, Campos dos Goytacazes experienced another dramatic weather event. On Saturday, the area was rocked by lightning strikes, which generated fear among the populace and even impacted water supply systems in certain neighborhoods. Residents recounted how one struck close to the condominium Recanto das Palmeiras, adding to the intense weather experiences.
While enthusiasm surrounds the spectacle of witnessing hail, the Civil Defense is advising residents to be cautious and avoid areas considered risk-prone, particularly those near rivers and along coastal regions. This follows the unpredictable weather patterns displayed over the weekend.
The local authority is concerned about potential flooding and other disasters following such hail and thunderstorms, urging communities to stay vigilant as this weather trend continues. Meteorologists are keeping close tabs on the atmospheric conditions, as winter draws near.
Interestingly, such weather occurrences are not representative of climatic norms for the area, signalling potential shifts. Gama and her colleagues highlight the balance and mix within cloud systems, reiterations of how large clouds of different thermal characteristics interact can lead to peculiar patterns and events.
This unexpected hailstorm serves as a reminder of the volatility of weather, leaving many Campos dos Goytacazes locals with stories to tell—of unusual storms and neighborhood tales shared over the next week as the community bonds over their shared experiences.
Overall, as these weather phenomena continue to evolve, residents remain hopeful and curious about what awaits them next. The unusual hailstorm may not just have been the climax of the weekend's weather drama, but rather the beginning of more surprising events to come.