On Carnival Tuesday, February 16, residents of Rio Grande do Sul are advised to prepare for unstable weather conditions as the National Institute of Meteorology (Inmet) has issued two key warnings. The orange alert warns of severe storms, predicting rainfall between 50 and 100 mm, strong winds reaching up to 100 km/h, and the possibility of hail. These conditions pose risks such as power outages, damage to crops, fallen trees, and flooding. The alert is particularly relevant for the Metropolitan Region of Porto Alegre, as well as the Serra, North, Northwest, Northeast, Central, Front West, and Campanha regions.

In addition to the existing orange alert, a yellow alert for potential dangers has been applied across the entire state, which is effective until late Tuesday night. This warning specifies expected rainfall of up to 50 mm daily, with wind speeds anticipated between 40 to 60 km/h. The inclement weather started affecting the state over the weekend, leading to various weather disturbances.

Notably, on the previous day, February 15, a tornado was recorded in the interior of Encruzilhada do Sul in the Valleys region. Eyewitnesses captured footage of this weather phenomenon, underscoring the severe instability impacting the region. As Carnival festivities are typically vibrant and celebratory, this impending storm disrupts usual activities, compelling authorities to issue these urgent warnings to ensure public safety during the holiday period.