Residents of the Northern Coast of São Paulo received a severe weather alert from the Civil Defense on Thursday afternoon, warning them about the severe risk of heavy rainfall in the region. The alert, which was sent to cell phones at 5:34 PM, included a loud tone and vibration, emphasizing that residents should remain in safe locations. The Civil Defense's message stated that persistent heavy rains were expected in the coming hours, with a high risk of flooding and landslides in vulnerable areas.

The alert system, which uses technology called 'cellbroadcast', is designed by the federal government to signal disaster risks and guide the population. This technology allows alerts to pop up on cell phone screens, overriding any active content. The severe condition affects all 46 municipalities in the Paraíba Valley, Serra da Mantiqueira, and the Northern Coast of São Paulo, underscoring the widespread nature of the threat posed by the incoming weather conditions.

This event serves as a reminder of the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events in Brazil, which can be attributed to climate change. Residents are advised to stay updated about weather conditions and follow the guidelines issued by local authorities to ensure their safety. The infrastructure resilience in these areas is crucial, as many communities might face disruptions in their daily lives due to potential flooding and landslides in the aftermath of the heavy rains.