Windstorms like those that struck the states of São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro on Wednesday (29), causing at least five deaths, are triggered by violent movements of air masses, with speeds between 88 and 102 km/h, generally accompanied by thunderstorms.
These windstorms knock down trees and power lines, causing interruptions to electricity supply and telephone and internet communications. Poorly built houses or those in dangerous locations can be damaged, warns the São Paulo Civil Defense.
Below are some guidelines from the agency on how to protect yourself in these situations:
What to do before
- It is important to check the structural integrity of the house, such as the roof's supporting timber and the fastening of roof tiles
- Keep trees well maintained and carry out preventive pruning
- Upon learning of the possibility of a windstorm, electrical appliances and gas should be turned off; objects that could fall or be thrown should be placed on the ground
- Water sports such as surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and rappelling, among others, should not be practiced
What to do during
- Seek safe shelter and avoid traveling through areas with trees and fragile metal roofing
- Work on scaffolding, for example, should be halted
- If driving, the guidance is to avoid passing or parking the vehicle near power lines, transmission towers, billboards, awnings, scaffolding, ladders, and other structures that do not appear safe
What to do after
- When dealing with problems caused by windstorms, help first with clearing roads and cleaning up and restoring the area
- When handling structures such as rooftops, it is best to hire specialized labor
- Never touch fallen electrical network cables; the Civil Defense and the Fire Department should be contacted
Beaufort Scale (wind speeds)
Source: Civil Defense SP
