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