Mar 20 • 19:48 UTC 🇧🇷 Brazil G1 (PT)

Why do rocks continue to fall from Morro do Cristo even after the rain has stopped in Juiz de Fora

Residents of Juiz de Fora are confused as to why rocks continue to fall from Morro do Cristo despite no new rain events occurring recently.

Recent rock falls from Morro do Cristo in Juiz de Fora, including a landslide that damaged a condominium, have left residents puzzled about the ongoing geological activity. Unlike common landslides that occur during heavy rain, rock falls can follow a different geological logic. According to geologist Douglas Cabral from the Geological Service of Brazil (SGB), the risk on Morro do Cristo remains dynamic and does not cease when the rain stops.

The natural monument of Morro do Cristo is primarily composed of a rock called granulite, known for its intense and diverse fracturing patterns that increase the susceptibility to mass movements such as rock falls and tumbles. This characteristic of the rock is compounded by various geological factors that can lead to instability at any time, even after periods of heavy rain have passed. The underlying geological conditions contribute to a continuous risk of rock falls, which must be monitored to ensure the safety of nearby residents.

This issue not only raises questions about geological safety but also emphasizes the need for ongoing geological assessments in urban areas adjacent to natural formations. Residents are advised to stay informed about the geological risks in their vicinity and to cooperate with local authorities in monitoring and responding to potential hazards, as the dynamics of rock formations can present hidden dangers that are not immediately apparent until after significant weather events or geological shifts are observed.

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