Santa Catarina Civil Defense Issues Storm and Tide Alerts

The Civil Defense of Santa Catarina issued its seventh alert on Saturday, warning that intense storms are moving inland toward the southern interior. Municipalities placed under alert include Bocaina do Sul, Bom Retiro, Correia Pinto, Lages, Otacílio Costa, Painel, Palmeira, Rio Rufino, São José do Cerrito, Urupema and Urubici. The system brings heavy rain, hail, strong wind gusts of 50‑75 km/h and sea waves up to 2‑2.5 m, posing risks of flooding, landslides and damage to infrastructure.

In Joinville, the local Civil Defense raised a separate alert for a high tide expected to peak around 15:45, with water levels reaching up to 2 m. The surge, amplified by southerly winds and a distant high‑pressure system, could cause moderate flooding in low‑lying neighborhoods such as Centro, Vigorelli, Boa Vista and Comasa. Residents are advised to avoid flooded areas, refrain from driving through water, and follow official safety instructions.