Key Facts
- ✓ The National Institute of Meteorology renewed an orange alert for intense rain affecting 507 cities in Minas Gerais, including the state capital.
- ✓ The weather warning is valid until the end of Wednesday, January 21, and is driven by the Zona de Convergência do Atlântico Sul (ZCAS) system.
- ✓ Forecasts predict rainfall rates of 30 to 60 mm per hour, with wind speeds potentially reaching 100 km/h during the event.
- ✓ Authorities warn of specific hazards such as power outages, falling tree branches, urban flooding, and lightning strikes.
- ✓ The alert covers a vast area, including the Belo Horizonte Metropolitan Region and extending to neighboring states like Espírito Santo and Rio de Janeiro.
- ✓ Safety guidelines advise the public to avoid sheltering under trees and to unplug electrical devices to prevent damage from power surges.
Widespread Weather Alert
The National Institute of Meteorology has renewed an orange alert for intense rainfall across 507 cities in Minas Gerais, including the capital Belo Horizonte and its metropolitan region. The warning remains in effect until the end of Wednesday, January 21.
This alert is driven by a new episode of the Zona de Convergência do Atlântico Sul (ZCAS), a significant meteorological system responsible for heavy rainfall in the Southeast and Central-West regions during the late spring and summer seasons.
Storm Intensity & Risks
According to the institute, the weather event poses significant hazards. Forecasts indicate a potential water volume of 30 to 60 mm per hour, with winds potentially reaching 100 km/h. By the end of Tuesday, rainfall accumulation could reach up to 100 mm.
The combination of heavy rain and strong winds creates several dangers for the public. The institute explicitly lists the following risks:
- Power outages and electrical failures
- Falling tree branches and debris
- Urban flooding and water accumulation
- Lightning strikes and electrical discharges
Safety Recommendations
In response to the severe weather forecast, authorities have issued critical safety guidelines for the population. The primary advice is to avoid seeking shelter under trees or near structures that could be compromised by wind.
Additionally, residents are urged to exercise caution regarding vehicles and electrical equipment. The institute recommends:
- Avoid parking near transmission towers or advertising signs
- Unplug electrical appliances and the main power supply if possible
- Keep emergency contacts readily available
In case of an emergency, the Defesa Civil (Civil Defense) can be reached at 199, and the Corpo de Bombeiros (Fire Department) at 193.
Geographic Scope
The meteorological warning covers the vast majority of Minas Gerais state. Specifically, it includes localities in the Triângulo Mineiro, Alto Paranaíba, Central Mineira, Zona da Mata, Vale do Rio Doce, Vale do Mucuri, Norte de Minas, Metropolitana de Belo Horizonte, Jequitinhonha, Noroeste de Minas, and Oeste de Minas.
The alert's influence extends beyond state borders, affecting neighboring regions including Espírito Santo, Rio de Janeiro, Bahia, Goiás, Tocantins, Piauí, Pará, Amazonas, Acre, Rondônia, and Mato Grosso.
Key Takeaways
The renewal of the orange alert highlights the persistent and widespread nature of the current weather system affecting Minas Gerais. With heavy rainfall and strong winds expected to continue through Wednesday, vigilance is essential for residents across the affected regions.
Adhering to safety recommendations can mitigate the risks associated with this severe weather event. Staying informed and prepared is the best defense against the potential hazards of flooding, power outages, and wind damage.
