Strong Winds Topple Statue of Liberty Replica Outside New York
A replica of the Statue of Liberty in Guaíba, Brazil, met a tragic end during a severe storm on Monday. The statue, standing approximately 40 meters tall, collapsed due to intense winds as storms swept across the region. Fortunately, local authorities reported no injuries related to this incident.
Details of the Incident
The statue was situated in a parking lot of a Havan retail megastore, near a fast-food restaurant. At around 3 PM, strong gusts of wind, exceeding 90 km/h, impacted the structure. Footage from the scene captured the statue leaning precariously before ultimately toppling and shattering upon impact.
Impact and Damage
- Height of the Statue: Approximately 40 meters (114 feet)
- Height of the Pedestal: Approximately 11 meters (36 feet)
After the collapse, company officials announced that only the upper section of the statue was damaged. The pedestal remained standing, signaling a partial preservation of the structure. Havan stated that the statue was installed when the store opened in 2020 and held the necessary technical certifications.
Response and Safety Measures
In the aftermath of the incident, the area was cordoned off for safety. Havan deployed specialist teams to clear the debris promptly. Mayor Marcelo Maranata commended the rapid response from local teams and state Civil Defence officials. He confirmed that no casualties occurred, and safety measures ensured nearby areas were checked for further damage.
Weather Conditions and Predictions
The storm caused widespread disruption throughout Rio Grande do Sul, with reports of hail, damaged roofs, and fallen trees. Temporary power outages and localized flooding were also noted. The National Institute of Meteorology issued ongoing storm warnings, with forecasts indicating wind gusts reaching up to 100 km/h. Meteorologists attributed these extreme conditions to a cold front affecting the region.
As conditions are expected to improve by Tuesday, there might still be intermittent rain following the storm. A technical inspection is planned to investigate the precise causes of the collapse, including potential weather-related and structural factors.
