One dead as heavy rains and thunderstorms hit Sao Paulo, Brazil
Severe weather conditions developed across Greater São Paulo, Brazil between February 18 and 19, 2025, resulting in severe floods that left at least one person dead.
Image credit: NOAA/GOES-East, RAMMB/CIRA, The Watchers. Acquired at 17:50 UTC on February 19, 2025
Heavy rains affected Baixada Santista, where flooding and structural damage were reported. Rainfall measurements for the region, according to Cemaden, were recorded at 161 mm (6.34 inches) in Bertioga, 144 mm (5.67 inches) in Santos, 141 mm (5.55 inches) in Guarujá, 125 mm (4.92 inches) in São Vicente, and 92 mm (3.62 inches) in Praia Grande.
The Fire Department responded to numerous distress calls as heavy rains battered the city, marking the start of a prolonged period of thunderstorms and instability expected to last through early next week, according to MetSul Meteorologia.
The torrential rain caused extensive disruptions, with streets inundated and impassable in multiple locations. Reports from local emergency services confirmed the collapse of a wall in Santos and multiple fallen trees across affected areas.
A woman in her 40s lost her life in Sao Paul on February 18 after being trapped in her car during severe flooding in Freguesia do Ó, caused by the overflowing Ribeirão Verde river.
The forecast indicates instability will persist across São Paulo, Greater São Paulo, and the coastal region throughout the week.
The primary risk period is expected during the afternoon and evening when warming temperatures contribute to the formation of strong convective clouds. Meteorologists warn that localized storms will bring heavy rain, strong winds, lightning, and the potential for hail.
References:
1 SÃO PAULO ENTERS A PERIOD OF FREQUENT RAIN AND STORMS – METSUL – February 19, 2025
Rishika holds a Master’s in International Studies from Stella Maris College, Chennai, India, where she earned a gold medal, and an MCA from the University of Mysore, Karnataka, India. Previously, she served as a Research Assistant at the National Institute of Advanced Studies, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, India. During her tenure, she contributed as a Junior Writer for Europe Monitor on the Global Politics website and as an Assistant Editor for The World This Week. Her work has also been published in The Hindu newspaper, showing her expertise in global affairs. Rishika is also a recipient of the Women Empowerment Award at the district level in Haryana, India, in 2022.
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