Cold front sweeps southern Brazil, triggering rain, frost and storms

A cold front moving southeast across Brazil is bringing a sharp temperature drop to the southern states. In Rio Grande do Sul temperatures fell to –5 °C, with frost reported in nearly 50 municipalities and isolated freezing in areas such as Toledo (1.9 °C). Paraná recorded a low of –2.3 °C, while Santa Catarina experienced strong winds, hail and the risk of thunderstorms.

The system is also affecting the southeast, bringing rain, increased cloudiness and cooler temperatures to Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Minas Gerais and Espírito Santo. In Rio, the front will cause moderate rain, occasional thunderstorms and gusty winds that could make seas rough for small vessels. In São Paulo, temperatures are expected to plunge to around 21 °C after a hot pre‑frontal day.

Authorities warn of moderate flood risk, especially in the south where heavy rain may cause localized flooding, fallen trees and power outages. The public is advised to follow official meteorological warnings and take safety precautions during the storms.