After months of scorching heat and a relentless drought, Brazil was finally hit by heavy rains—but the sudden deluge has tragically claimed the lives of at least eight people. 😢💧
Since Friday, central and southeastern Brazil have been battered by storms with winds reaching up to 100 km/h and daily rainfall of up to 10 cm, according to the National Institute of Meteorology. The long-awaited rain brought relief from the dry spell but also chaos and destruction.
In São Paulo, the country's most populous state, seven people lost their lives mainly due to falling trees and collapsing walls caused by the violent winds and torrential rain, as reported by the state's civil defense. The city of São Paulo faced massive blackouts, leaving around 1.6 million homes and businesses without electricity, according to energy firm Enel. ⚡🌪️
Over in Brasília, the capital city, a soldier was killed and another injured when a tree fell on them as they were removing a flag in front of the military police headquarters. The incident highlights the sudden and severe impact of the storms.
Even the nation's lawmakers weren't spared! Reports say officials inside the Chamber of Deputies had to use umbrellas indoors as rainwater leaked through the roof. ☔🏛️ Talk about making a splash in politics!
Despite the havoc, many residents welcomed the downpour. In Brasília, the rain ended a record dry spell of over 165 days. 🌵➡️🌧️ People celebrated the much-needed relief, hoping it marks the beginning of recovery from the worst drought since records began—a situation experts link to climate change.
The prolonged dry weather had fueled devastating wildfires across Brazil. The Amazon rainforest suffered immensely, the Pantanal wetlands saw jaguars with burn injuries, and major cities were choked with smoke. The sudden shift from fire to floods underscores the extreme weather patterns impacting the country.
As Brazil navigates from drought to deluge, locals are hoping for more balanced days ahead. Here's to safer skies and brighter tomorrows! 🙏🇧🇷
Reference(s):
At least 8 dead as heavy rain thrashes Brazil after long drought
cgtn.com
