New Cyclone to Bring Storms to Southern Brazil

A new extratropical cyclone forms offshore today, impacting Southern Brazil. Climatempo says the event won’t hit cities directly but will cause storms and winds.

In Rio Grande do Sul, the weather agency warns of lightning, hail, and winds between 60 to 80 km/h.

Rain may vary from 50 to 70 mm daily, spiking to 120 mm in isolated areas. The agency also cautions about high waves reaching 2.5 meters, with peaks around 3 meters.

By Thursday, weather conditions in Rio Grande do Sul will stabilize. However, the northern region faces more disruptions on Friday.

Forecasts indicate storms, lightning, hail, and wind gusts. In Santa Catarina, rain volumes could reach 60 to 90 mm. Some places may exceed 100 mm.

Greater Florianopolis, Upper Itajaí Valley, Southern Plateau, and the Greater West are most at risk.

Climatempo warns these regions of flash floods, flooding, and landslides.

Like Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina can expect wind speeds of 60 to 80 km/h.

Seas will be rough, with 2 to 2.5 meters wave heights and occasional 3-meter peaks. Persistent rain is expected until Sunday.

Background

The event mirrors last month’s cyclone in Rio Grande do Sul, which had devastating impacts.

That episode led to deaths and widespread damage. Such weather patterns are becoming more frequent in Southern Brazil.

Experts attribute this to climate change, intensifying global extreme weather events.

In contrast, similar regions like the southeastern United States have a well-established system for weather warnings.

Brazil could benefit from adopting these practices to mitigate damage and casualties. Yet, investment in weather tracking and emergency systems remains low in Brazil.

Internationally, cyclones have led to severe disruptions in countries like Australia and the U.S.

Hence, the need for global cooperation on weather forecasting is evident.

As extreme weather events become more common worldwide, these collaborative efforts will be crucial for preparedness and response.