Cyclone Fury: 3 Million Left Powerless as Severe Storms Wreak Havoc in Southern Brazil

Southern Brazil's Rio Grande do Sul faced devastating impacts on Sunday, December 1, 2024, as severe thunderstorms swept through the region, leaving over 3 million people without electricity. The storms, fueled by a powerful cyclone forming along Uruguay's coastline, also brought chaos to parts of Argentina and Uruguay, unleashing winds over 100 km/h (62 mph), torrential rains, and large hail.

A Night of Chaos in Rio Grande do Sul

The storm front began its destructive path in Uruguay around 15:00 local time (18:00 UTC) before moving into Brazil's Rio Grande do Sul by 19:00. Cities across the region, including Porto Alegre, experienced intense weather conditions.

By 23:00 local time, wind gusts exceeding 80 km/h (50 mph) hammered the state capital, while other areas saw even more extreme winds surpassing 100 km/h (62 mph). Around midnight, the storm plunged 800,000 customers—or roughly 3 million residents—into darkness, with significant damage reported across the state.

Destruction in Its Wake

The storm caused widespread devastation, including the collapse of the events pavilion at Atilio Pasa Park in Arroio do Tigre, injuring at least 25 people. Northern regions like Carazinho were also heavily impacted by violent gales, leaving a trail of destruction.

Neighboring Nations on High Alert

Before the storms reached Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay braced for impact:

• Argentina's Santa Fe Province recorded winds over 100 km/h (62 mph), with significant damage in Cayastá. Meteorologists are investigating reports of possible tornado activity.
• Uruguay's northern departments faced their highest-level weather alerts, with winds of 104 km/h (65 mph) recorded at Artigas Airport. Preliminary damage reports include uprooted trees and structural losses in rural areas.

A Cyclone-Fueled Disaster

According to MetSul Meteorologia, the storms were triggered by a cyclone developing near Uruguay's coast, forming a line of severe thunderstorms. The violent system swept through northern Uruguay and into Brazil, battering cities and rural areas alike with unrelenting winds and rainfall.

Rescue and Recovery Efforts Underway

Authorities across Rio Grande do Sul have mobilized emergency teams to clear debris, restore power, and provide assistance to those affected. Meteorologists warn that while the worst has passed, lingering rains may cause further disruptions in the coming days.

This storm serves as a stark reminder of the destructive power of nature and the growing need for climate preparedness across South America.

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