Powerful wind gusts measuring close to 70 kilometers per hour caused aircraft at Chapecó airport in western Santa Catarina to sway dramatically on Thursday afternoon. Video footage captured the intense conditions as a cold front swept through the Brazilian state, showcasing the raw force of nature affecting airport operations.
Airport officials confirmed that flights continue to operate on schedule, though pilots and ground crews are exercising heightened caution due to the challenging wind conditions. The strong gusts are linked to the formation of an extratropical cyclone in the ocean between Uruguay and Argentina, which is amplifying wind speeds across Santa Catarina even though the storm system is not directly impacting the state.
Authorities from Santa Catarina's Civil Defense issued warnings indicating that powerful winds will persist in the coming hours. Forecasts predict gusts ranging between 45 and 65 km/h across the Extreme West, West, Mid-West, and South Plateau regions of the state. Residents and travelers in these areas should prepare for continued blustery conditions.
Weather conditions are expected to deteriorate further between Thursday evening and Friday afternoon. The entire state faces a return to instability, with storm systems developing. The Greater West region faces particularly high risk during the overnight hours, with potential wind speeds exceeding 80 km/h accompanied by intense rainfall, lightning, and hail.
The National Institute of Meteorology has issued a danger-level storm alert valid through Thursday night. The advisory warns of rainfall between 30 and 60 millimeters per hour combined with wind gusts ranging from 60 to 100 km/h. These conditions pose significant risks to infrastructure and public safety throughout the affected areas.
Other regions of Santa Catarina face moderate risk from the approaching weather system. Potential hazards include localized flooding, falling branches and trees, roof damage, and disruptions to electrical networks. Saturday's forecast calls for continued instability with persistent rain and isolated storms, particularly affecting Greater Florianópolis, the North Coast, North Plateau, and Itajaí Valley.
Civil Defense authorities urge residents to seek shelter during storms and avoid areas near trees, signage, and utility poles when winds are strong. Officials also warn against crossing flooded streets. In case of emergency, residents can contact the Fire Department at 193 or Civil Defense at 199 for assistance.
Based on reporting from g1.