Heavy rain hits Rio de Janeiro; Nova Iguaçu records 89 mm in 1 hour and is on maximum alert
Heavy rainfall in Rio de Janeiro caused flooding and significant disruptions in various areas, particularly in Nova Iguaçu where 89 mm of rain fell in just one hour.
On Saturday, heavy rainfall affected several regions of Rio de Janeiro, with significant impacts noted in the capital, the Serrana region, and the Baixada Fluminense. The storm led to flooding in various areas, leaving many locations facing unstable weather conditions. Nova Iguaçu, in particular, was severely affected, receiving a staggering 89 mm of rain in just one hour, causing authorities to issue maximum alerts due to the risk of flooding and related hazards.
Images from Nova Iguaçu showed alarming scenes, including a waterfall forming in a parking lot due to the intense rainfall. This extreme weather event not only disrupted transportation but also posed potential dangers to residents. Specifically, the Avenida Abílio Augusto Távora experienced powerful currents that swept away debris and posed risks to bystanders. Even commercial properties were impacted, as demonstrated by a shopping center in the area where water poured from the ceiling during the storm.
The situation raises concerns not only about the immediate impact of such extreme weather but also about the broader implications for infrastructure resilience and emergency preparedness in a region prone to such natural disasters. Local authorities are likely to assess the damage and response measures closely, especially as predictions indicate the likelihood of continued instability in the weather for the days ahead, urging residents to remain vigilant and prepared for possible evacuation if necessary.