logo Agência Brasil
General

Extratropical cyclone brings damage to South Brazil

Hardest-hit were the states of Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina
Agência Brasil
Published on 12/07/2023 - 15:41
Brasília
An aerial view shows the damage and flooding caused by heavy rains due to an extratropical cyclone, in Sao Leopoldo, Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil June 18, 2023. REUTERS/Diego Vara
© REUTERS/Diego Vara

Due to the arrival of an extratropical cyclone in the Brazilian South, highways were blocked on Wednesday (Jul. 12) following downpours across the midwest of Santa Catarina state. Flooding, slope collapses, and hill slides have been reported.

Teams from the State Secretariat for Infrastructure are working to clear the roads as quickly as possible and the Military Highway Police are monitoring the situation. Locals are advised to avoid driving on the highways and to pay extra attention to the road.

People affected by an extratropical cyclone rest in a gymnasium used as a shelter for flood victims in Sao Leopoldo, Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil, June 18, 2023. REUTERS/Diego Vara
People affected by an extratropical cyclone rest in a gymnasium used as a shelter for flood victims in Sao Leopoldo, Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil, June 18, 2023 - REUTERS/Diego Vara

In the neighboring state of Rio Grande do Sul, the city of São Leopoldo has taken measures to deal with the passing cyclone. On Wednesday, the city announced that classes in municipal schools are suspended until Thursday (13). Private schools should follow suit.

The team from the Situation Room and agents from the State Civil Defense Operations Center continue to follow the progress of the cyclone, which has brought heavy rains, hail, and windstorms. In addition, the Civil Defense is still issuing alerts when risk areas are identified.