A major weather shift is on the horizon for Mato Grosso do Sul, as a potent cold wave is forecast to sweep across the state this weekend, delivering a combination of heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and a sharp decline in temperatures. The atmospheric instability is expected to begin on Friday, May 8th, primarily affecting the southern, western, and southwestern regions of the state.
According to meteorological forecasts, the initial phase of this system will feature wind gusts that could reach up to 70 kilometers per hour. These powerful winds will accompany the onset of the rain, creating challenging conditions. In some areas, minimum temperatures are predicted to plunge below 13 degrees Celsius as the cold air mass advances.
The impact of the cold front is expected to intensify significantly over the weekend. Saturday, May 9th, and Sunday, May 10th, are projected to be the core days of the event, with the coldest conditions and most persistent precipitation. The forecast indicates a chance of frost developing in the state by the following week, underscoring the depth of the cold air invasion.
This period of chilly weather is not expected to be fleeting. The cold conditions are forecast to persist through the morning of Tuesday, May 12th. Residents across the broader Centro-Sul region of Brazil should prepare for notably colder nights during this stretch, as the polar air mass settles over the area.
While the most intense cold is predicted to be relatively short-lived, with temperatures expected to rise quickly after the main frontal passage, there is already a warning for what may follow. Meteorologists suggest a new, potentially even stronger, cold air mass could arrive toward the end of the month, which might trigger another, more pronounced temperature drop.
In response to the impending weather, local authorities are taking proactive measures. The city of Campo Grande is launching its "Inverno Acolhedor" (Welcoming Winter) initiative on Saturday, May 9th, at Parque Ayrton Senna. This program is designed to provide shelter and support for people experiencing homelessness during the cold snap, offering overnight stays on Saturday and Sunday nights. The continuation of this service into Monday will depend on the evolving weather forecast.
The detailed city-by-city forecast highlights the widespread nature of the event. Campo Grande is bracing for a high of 80% chance of rain on Friday, dropping to a minimum of 12°C on Saturday. Dourados faces a 98% chance of rain on Friday, with temperatures falling to a minimum of 10°C by Saturday. Corumbá is also under a high rain probability, with a minimum of 14°C expected on Saturday. Even Três Lagoas, which may stay dry initially, is forecast to see rain arrive by Sunday with a minimum temperature of 11°C. Ponta Porã is anticipating severe weather on Friday with a 99% chance of rain and thunderstorms, followed by a minimum of just 9°C on Saturday.
Based on reporting from g1.