Extratropical Cyclone Brings Severe Weather to Southern Brazil in Early February 2026

An extratropical cyclone is intensifying over the state of Santa Catarina, southern Brazil, prompting severe weather warnings including heavy rains, thunderstorms, hail, and strong wind gusts. This weather system is expected to persist through the first days of February 2026, impacting both Santa Catarina and the state of São Paulo.

According to the Civil Defense of Santa Catarina, the cyclone is generating isolated storms with lightning, hail, and localized flooding mainly along the southern coast and the greater Florianópolis area. Persistent and heavy rainfall is forecasted from February 2 to 4, with severe thunderstorms intensifying from the early hours of February 3, particularly between the northern coast and Florianópolis, increasing risks of flooding, mudslides, and flash floods. The Defense Civil had issued an earlier alert on January 30 about the cyclone’s expected arrival around February 2 to 4.

Meanwhile, the Civil Defense of São Paulo has also issued warnings for persistent rain from February 2 to 3, accompanied by thunderstorms, hail in isolated locations, and strong wind gusts. The western part of São Paulo state near the Paraná border is likely to see the heaviest rainfall. Rainfall accumulations are expected to be very high in the Vale do Ribeira and Itapeva regions, high in Sorocaba and Bauru, and medium in the Metropolitan São Paulo, Campinas, and other regions. The Emergency Management Center will remain on alert 24 hours during this period.

Authorities in both states have advised residents to avoid flood-prone and risk areas, not to cross flooded streets, and to seek shelter during storms, keeping away from trees, poles, and metal structures. In hillside zones, people should be alert to signs of landslides such as cracks or leaning trees and poles. Emergency contacts include Civil Defense at 199 and the Fire Department at 193.

Meteorologist Nicolle Reis noted that unlike brief storms earlier, this cyclone will bring persistent and substantial rainfall over several days. The continuing extreme weather conditions pose significant risks of flooding and landslides, underscoring the importance of public vigilance and preparedness.