Inmet issues Orange alert: Severe storms and hail scare several regions!

Orange alert for storms and hailstorms in Brazil, with strong winds and risk of flooding. Check out Inmet's forecasts.

On the afternoon and evening of this Thursday, March 13, and throughout the day tomorrow, Friday, March 14, several regions of Brazil are on orange alert for extreme weather conditions.  

Areas of the metropolitan region of São Paulo, the Paraíba Valley, the northern coast of São Paulo, the south of Minas Gerais, the Zona da Mata region of Minas Gerais and parts of Rio de Janeiro, including the metropolitan region, will experience severe storms, with hail, winds of up to 100 km/h and precipitation volumes between 50 mm and 100 mm.  

These locations are under orange alert (danger) for storms, according to the National Institute of Meteorology (Inmet). 

In addition, the forecast also affects a significant part of the North Region and areas of the Central-West, where the orange alert was issued for heavy rains and storms.  

The highlight is the strip between Acre, southwest Amazonas, central-west Mato Grosso and northwest Mato Grosso do Sul.  

In these regions, rainfall can reach volumes of up to 100 mm, with strong winds that can reach 100 km/h. 

Weather conditions and imminent dangers 

The conditions for storms are favorable due to the presence of a hot, humid and unstable air mass that favors the development of heavy rains in these areas. 

During the orange alert, the expectation is that the intensity of the rains and the winds will bring significant risks, such as flooding and falling trees, in addition to the possibility of hail.  

Strong winds also pose a high risk of damage to fragile structures and even air and ground transportation. 

Inmet highlights that, in cases of heavy rain and strong winds, the population should take shelter in safe areas and avoid places with a risk of flooding and falling trees.  

The recommendation is that citizens remain attentive to official communications and seek information from reliable sources. 

Forecast of heavy rain and hail in several regions 

With the orange alert in effect, meteorologists indicate that, in addition to the regions already mentioned, other states will also face strong storms.  

The expectation is that today and tomorrow will be marked by intense rains, with volumes that could exceed 50 mm, especially in areas of the Center-West, North and Southeast of Brazil.  

In these regions, in addition to storms, the probability of hail is also high. 

In the areas of the Paraíba Valley and the northern coast of São Paulo, the risk of hail and strong winds is significant.  

Areas in the Zona da Mata region of Minas Gerais should prepare for storms that, according to Inmet, may be accompanied by lightning, strong gusts of wind and hail. 

Alerts for other regions of Brazil 

In addition to the areas with an orange alert, Inmet also issued warnings for other parts of Brazil that, although not at extreme risk, present meteorological conditions that require attention.  

With a yellow alert (potential danger), some regions in the South, Central-West and North will have heavy rains, but with less severity.  

In these areas, rainfall of up to 50 mm is forecast, with winds of up to 60 km/h, which can still cause problems.

It is important that all citizens in these regions also pay attention to Inmet's daily updates. 

How to Prepare for Storms and Hailstorms 

During storms, it is essential to follow some safety guidelines to minimize the risk of damage. Below, we list some essential tips: 

Avoid leaving your home during the height of the storm. If you must go out, seek shelter in safe places, away from areas subject to flooding. 

Protect yourself from hail and strong winds. If possible, take shelter indoors and away from windows and doors. 

Turn off electronic devices. So in case of lightning storms, turn off electronic devices to avoid damage from power surges. 

Avoid parking under trees. Falling trees are a significant risk during high winds. 

Follow Inmet forecasts and alerts 

The National Institute of Meteorology in fact follows by monitoring weather conditions throughout Brazil and publishing forecasts and alerts to ensure the safety of the population.  

Inmet is an agency of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAPA) and, since 1950, has represented Brazil before the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). 

Stay alert for orange alerts and forecasts of hail in the coming hours.  

Inmet will continue to update its forecasts and alerts, ensuring essential information for the safety of the population.  

If you are in the affected areas, it is crucial to follow the recommendations and seek shelter, especially during times of more intense storms. 

With severe weather conditions forecast for the next few hours, people in affected regions must prepare to face intense storms.  

Therefore, an orange alert for a storm is a clear indication that the risks are high, and precaution is essential to ensure everyone's safety.  

Stay informed and follow the guidance of meteorological authorities. 

INMET GOV