Heavier rains forecast for southern Brazil
Although there was a temporary improvement in the weather on Monday (Oct. 9), in the state of Santa Catarina, in Brazil's southern region, the local Civil Defense warns of the likelihood of heavy rain returning on Wednesday (11), and Thursday (12).
The state Civil Defense's monitoring and warning coordinator, Frederico Rudorff, said that rainfall volumes may range from 60 to 80 millimeters within 24 hours, and in certain areas, could exceed 100 millimeters per day.
"The amount of rainfall is substantial, particularly given the already saturated basin conditions. We urge caution in the coming days and recommend that, especially in the Vale do Itajaí region, shelters remain prepared to ensure smooth operations during this period," he advised.
In Santa Catarina 132 municipalities have experienced numerous incidents resulting from the heavy rains that have afflicted the state since last week. A Civil Defense bulletin issued on Monday reported that 67 municipalities have already declared a state of emergency, with confirmed fatalities in Rio do Oeste and Palmeira, totaling two casualties.
More risks
The state's Civil Defense has warned that the risk of landslides is still high across all regions of this state. This heightened danger is a result of the substantial rainfall accumulated in recent days, keeping the ground saturated. At present, a landslide alert is in effect for at least four regions within the state, including areas surrounding the capital, Florianópolis.
Geologist Mattheus Klein Flach reported that landslides have already occurred in multiple areas, spanning from the western region to the northern plateau, through the Vale do Itajaí, and along the southern coast.
