A powerful storm hit Sao Paulo, Brazil, leaving 1.4 million households without power for almost 24 hours. The storm brought record wind gusts of up to 67 mph, knocking down transmission lines and causing severe damage. Unfortunately, at least seven people lost their lives, including one person who was killed when a tree fell on an outdoor stall.
The storm also disrupted water service in some areas and led to the closure of several airports. Despite initial expectations of a quick restoration of power, many neighborhoods in the metropolitan area remained without electricity on Saturday. Residents were advised to conserve water as authorities worked to address the situation.
The majority of the power outages were in the service area of Enel-Sao Paulo, a utility partly owned by AES Corporation. Regulators have ordered an inspection of the utility and warned of potential consequences if the outages are not resolved promptly.
Enel stated that 17 high voltage transmission lines were impacted by the storm but did not provide a specific timeline for when service would be fully restored. The company’s response to the situation will be closely monitored to ensure that residents receive the necessary support.
The storm’s impact serves as a reminder of the vulnerability of infrastructure in the face of extreme weather events. It highlights the importance of preparedness and response measures to minimize the disruption caused by natural disasters.
As residents in Sao Paulo work to recover from the aftermath of the storm, it is crucial for authorities and utility companies to collaborate effectively to restore essential services and support the affected communities. The incident underscores the need for resilience in the face of unpredictable weather patterns and the importance of investing in robust infrastructure to withstand future challenges.
