Severe storms wreak havoc across southern Brazil, leaving 7 people dead
Heavy rain has wreaked havoc across southern Brazil, particularly in the São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro States, over the past two days. Residents have been dealing with flooding, devastating weather-related incidents caused by lightning, and landslides that have resulted in casualties and destruction.
The Operations Centre of Rio de Janeiro declared a red alert due to heavy rainfall that began on February 7, 2023. The Centre reported 30.4 mm (1.19 inches) of rain in 15 minutes and 67.4 mm (2.65 inches) in just one hour at the Jardim Botânico weather station.
The severe weather has caused widespread destruction in the region, with over 150 incidents being reported, including 100 flooded roads, damaged buildings, and fallen trees. There have also been over 30 landslides and 20 schools have been closed as a result. Niterói across Guanabara Bay was among the areas badly affected.
The Military Fire Brigade of the State of Rio de Janeiro (CBMERJ) played a critical role in the rescue operations, saving around 70 people who were trapped or stranded.
Six fatalities were reported across the Rio de Janeiro State, of which two in the Rio de Janeiro Capital City due to landslides, two in São Goncalo Town, one in Niteroi City, and one more in Saquarema City.
In the São Paulo State, the media also report one fatality in Osasco City and one person still missing across the São Paulo Capital City.
References:
1 Brazil – Severe weather – INMET, DG ECHO – February 10, 2023
2 Brazil – Floods in Rio De Janeiro After 67mm of Rain in 1 Hour – FloodList – February 9, 2023
Featured image credit: Jornal Brasil De Direita (stillshot)
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