Severe storm leaves 1 dead, several homes destroyed in Espirito Santo, Brazil

A severe storm struck Espirito Santo in southeastern Brazil on Sunday, March 7, 2021, causing flooding and landslides that left many homes damaged or destroyed. More than 11 000 lightning strikes were reported across the state, resulting in one fatality in Corrego Sao Jose de Pancas.

Up to 149 mm (5.9 inches) of rain was recorded in the municipality of Marechal Floriano in a 24-hour period to Monday, March 8. Vila Velha saw 113.7 mm (4.5 inches), Cariacica 90.4 mm (3.5 inches), and Vitoria 88.9 mm (3.5 inches).

The storm triggered flooding and landslides that left several homes damaged or destroyed in Serra, Viana, and Cariacica. In Sao Domingos do Norte, three people were left homeless after a mudslide destroyed their house. 

Vila Velha was among the worst-hit areas, where a shopping center and two hospitals were heavily damaged due to flooding. Five people were displaced after their homes sustained damages. In Vitoria, 18 people were displaced, while several medical centers and hospitals were inundated and damaged. 

According to local media, more than 11 000 lightning strikes were recorded across the state. One person lost his life after being struck by lightning in Corrego Sao Jose de Pancas, the Civil Defense reported.

Featured image credit: Vila Velha City Hall