Severe Storm Hits São Paulo, Brazil – Widespread Flooding and Power Outages
A powerful storm wreaked havoc across Greater São Paulo on February 10, 2025, causing severe flooding, traffic standstills, and massive power outages that left over 76,000 homes in darkness. The storm struck suddenly, leaving many residents stranded as roads turned into rivers.
🌧️ Storm Impact: Flooded Streets & Drowned Vehicles The storm hit hard at 16:00 local time (LT), particularly affecting Guarulhos, one of São Paulo’s largest municipalities. Floodwaters submerged vehicles, cut off major roads, and stranded commuters. Some of the worst-hit roads included: ✔ Via Dutra ✔ Avenida Paulo Faccini ✔ Avenida Tiradentes
One of the most dramatic scenes unfolded at a luxury car dealership, where at least 20 high-end cars were submerged in floodwaters.
By 17:00 LT, the São Paulo Climate Emergency Management Center (CGE) had extended a flood alert across the entire city. Several municipalities, including Osasco, Jandira, Carapicuíba, and Mairiporã, also faced intense rain, localized flooding, and even hailstorms.
Significant flooding in Guarulhos, in Greater SP, Brazil yesterday after the heavy rains that hit the capital of São Paulo and the entire region. pic.twitter.com/8V48TDZRLN
The storm’s strong winds and heavy rainfall led to widespread power failures: 🕯️ 15:55 LT – 17,900 homes lost electricity 🕯️ 16:31 LT – Outages spread to 43,100 homes 🕯️ 17:00 LT – 65,400 homes plunged into darkness 🕯️ 18:30 LT – Peak of 76,700 homes affected
Other affected areas: 🔌 Osasco – 21,400 homes without power 🔌 Carapicuíba – 5,700 homes in blackout 🔌 Itapecerica – 3,400 homes without electricity
🌪️ What Caused the Storm? Meteorologists explain that this extreme weather resulted from: ✅ Intense daytime heat ✅ Strong sea breezes colliding with unstable air ✅ Localized storm cells triggering heavy rain, wind gusts, and hail
Guarulhos ta um caos. As ruas perto de casa todas alagadas. O prédio em construção que aparece no vídeo é onde comprei o meu ap e vou morar daqui um ano 😐 pic.twitter.com/17lMd0bWrk
Radar images showed the most intense rainfall over Penha, Mooca, and Butantã, with rapid flooding in several low-lying neighborhoods.
🌦️ Forecast for São Paulo: More Storms Ahead? While the storm is expected to weaken, unstable conditions could trigger additional heavy showers in the coming days. Forecast highlights:
🔹 February 12–13 – Scattered afternoon thunderstorms, risk of localized flooding. 🔹 February 14–15 – A new frontal system could bring stronger storms and potential wind gusts up to 60 km/h (37 mph).
⚠️ Residents should stay alert for further weather warnings and avoid flood-prone areas.
📢 Safety Tips for Residents ✔️ Avoid driving through flooded streets – just 30 cm (1 foot) of water can carry a vehicle away! 🚗💦 ✔️ Stay indoors during heavy rain – strong winds and debris can be hazardous. ✔️ If power is out, avoid downed power lines and report outages to authorities. ✔️ Prepare emergency kits with flashlights, water, and non-perishable food.
🌎 Final Thoughts This storm serves as a stark reminder of the increasing intensity of extreme weather in São Paulo. With urbanization and climate change contributing to heavier rains and flash floods, it’s crucial for both officials and residents to take proactive measures for future storms.
Gleb Perov is the founder and chief meteorologist of POGODNIK, a leading weather forecasting service in Eastern Europe. With over 15 years of hands-on experience in meteorology and climate analysis, he has worked private weather services. Gleb is the author of numerous scientific and analytical publications on climate, magnetic storms, and atmospheric processes. He regularly collaborates with major international agencies such as NOAA, ECMWF.
