A tree fell in Curitiba, blocking a 100-year-old woman's exit for her birthday celebration due to strong winds, but fortunately, there were no injuries.
In Curitiba, Brazil, a large tree approximately 30 meters high fell during strong winds on Saturday evening, obstructing the entrance to the home of 100-year-old Clotilde Meneses, who was preparing to leave for her birthday celebration. The fallen tree not only blocked her family's exit but also impacted the electrical network, causing a power outage in the area. Fortunately, no injuries were reported despite the scare.
Residents had previously noted that the tree was leaning and had alerted local authorities, including the Civil Defense and the Paranaense Energy Company (Copel). Although an assessment was conducted, and cutting the tree was scheduled as a precaution, the strong winds caused it to fall unexpectedly before any action could be taken. On Saturday, winds in the Boqueirão neighborhood reached speeds of 64.1 km/h, making the conditions particularly hazardous for such large trees.
Clotilde's granddaughter, Vivian Meneses, recounted that the family was in the process of placing the elderly woman into a car when the tree fell into the yard. The incident highlights the risks posed by severe weather and inadequate tree maintenance in urban areas, raising questions about preparedness for such events, especially concerning vulnerable citizens who could be affected by unforeseen accidents due to natural elements.
