Storm in Greater São Paulo Causes Floods and Disappearances

An intense storm over Greater São Paulo caused flooding in neighborhoods of the capital and the metropolitan region, leading to loss of life and extensive blockages on the busiest roads. Two men disappeared after being swept away by the current of the Tietê River in Jandira, while the Marginal Tietê highway was blocked for over 560 kilometers.

Flooding Affecting Neighborhoods in São Paulo and Surrounding Areas

On Saturday (12), the National Institute of Meteorology recorded 75.4 millimeters of rain at Mirante de Santana, the highest amount of rainfall in 24 hours in the country during that period. The Municipal Civil Defense received 34 calls between 6 AM and 6 PM, with 14 reports of fallen trees, 12 of collapses, and eight of landslides.

Jardim Pantanal, in the East Zone, was flooded again. Bedrooms, kitchens, and living rooms were inundated with water, and firefighters rescued a bedridden man. The region, home to 45,000 residents, is located in a floodplain of the Tietê River, where the water flows slowly and meanders.

Disappearance of Men in Jandira

The two men, aged 32 and 33, disappeared around 1 AM on Avenida Antônio Bardella, Jardim São Luiz, Jandira. One of them was in a flooded area when he was swept away by the current. The other, along with his 32-year-old sister, tried to help but was also carried away. The woman managed to cling to trees on the riverbanks and was rescued.

Traffic Congestion on Marginal Tietê

The Marginal Tietê highway was blocked for over 560 kilometers, according to the Traffic Engineering Company. Congestion reached 564 kilometers at 1:30 PM, the second worst index of the week, behind only Thursday. Part of the lanes was cleared in the afternoon, but the central lane remained closed, and the express lane, near the Tietê River, continued to experience slow traffic.

Flooding in Coastal and Inland Municipalities

The State Civil Defense sent over 2,000 items such as mattresses, basic food baskets, and cleaning kits to affected municipalities, including Avaré, Piedade, Sumaré, Juquitiba, Monte Mor, Ibiúna, and Sete Barras. In Juquitiba, 60 homes were condemned and 50 people were displaced, with a temporary shelter set up to accommodate residents.

River Monitoring and Flood Control Actions

Of the 20 monitored points on the Pinheiros and Tietê rivers, the trend observed at 5 PM was a reduction in volumes. There were 8 points in normal condition, 5 under attention, 3 on alert, and 4 overflowing. All flood control pumps operated during the night to assist in controlling the river flow.

Persistent Rain Forecast and Civil Defense Guidelines

The forecast indicates persistent rainfall between Sunday (13) and Monday (14) in different regions of São Paulo State, with rain volumes that could reach 150 mm in Baixada Santista and 100 mm in metropolitan areas. Civil Defense advises residents to follow alerts and avoid areas prone to flooding during periods of rain.

Based on information from G1, agenciasp.sp.gov.br.