Feb 11 β€’ 00:01 UTC πŸ‡§πŸ‡· Brazil G1 (PT)

'I didn't give up on her,' says physical educator who rescued electrocuted tourist during storm in Rio

A 15-year-old Chilean tourist is hospitalized in Rio de Janeiro after suffering an electric shock during a storm, prompting a dramatic rescue by a local man.

A 15-year-old Chilean tourist is currently hospitalized in Rio de Janeiro after she was electrocuted during a severe storm. The incident occurred on Monday, when Felipe Dias, a street resident in Copacabana, witnessed the girl struggling in a flooded street and rushed to save her. In a shocking turn of events, as Felipe approached her, he too was electrocuted and fell into the water alongside her. The dramatic scene was captured on video and has drawn significant attention to the dangers present during heavy rains in the area.

Felipe, who makes a living through odd jobs, described his instinctual reaction to save the girl, believing she was drowning. He recalled, "She was lying in the water, struggling significantly," highlighting the urgency of the situation. After the incident, both he and the tourist were treated in the hospital, where Felipe reflected on the harrowing experience. His attempts to help the girl demonstrate the human spirit's resilience and willingness to act in times of crisis, even at great personal risk.

The episode underscores a broader concern regarding public safety during storms in urban areas, especially in cities like Rio de Janeiro which often experience heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding. Emergency services have since issued warnings about the risks of electric shock in such conditions, urging people to exercise caution when encountering flooded areas, particularly those where downed power lines may be present. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of community vigilance and readiness to assist others in times of distress, highlighting both the dangers of severe weather and the heroism that can arise in response to emergencies.

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