Statue of Liberty Replica Falls in Guaiba

Severe Weather Strikes Southern Brazil

On Monday, December 15, southern Brazil experienced a powerful storm system that left dramatic impacts in its wake. In the city of Guaiba, Rio Grande do Sul, a 24-metre replica of the Statue of Liberty collapsed outside a Havan megastore. The dramatic moment was captured in multiple videos circulating on social media, showing the monumental statue slowly tipping before crashing onto an empty parking lot.

Intense Winds and Safety Measures

Brazil’s civil defence agency, Defesa Civil, reported wind gusts surpassing 90 km/h, prompting severe weather alerts across the metropolitan area. The statue, installed in 2020 and certified by professional engineers, stood on an 11-metre concrete base that remarkably remained undamaged. Thanks to swift reactions from store staff and bystanders, nearby vehicles were moved just in time, preventing injuries and property damage.

Guaiba Mayor Provides Update

Mayor Marcelo Maranata confirmed the incident online, noting that wind speeds ranged between 80 and 90 km/h. He praised the quick safety measures for averting casualties. Havan also issued a statement, explaining that staff immediately cordoned off the area and began debris removal within hours. Store operations continued uninterrupted, according to reports. The company emphasized that all its Statue of Liberty replicas nationwide meet rigorous engineering standards and professional certifications, while also launching an internal investigation to understand the collapse.

Emergency Alerts and Storm Formation

The severe weather developed as intense heat collided with an advancing cold front, producing dense clouds and isolated yet violent wind gusts across Rio Grande do Sul in the afternoon. Defesa Civil utilized a cell broadcast system to send emergency alerts to mobile phones, even those on silent mode, cautioning residents about falling structures, strong winds, and the dangers of open areas.

Storm Impact Across the State

The storm affected multiple parts of Rio Grande do Sul. Hail was reported in Tio Hugo, while roof damage occurred in Passo Fundo, Santa Cruz do Sul, and Vera Cruz. Heavy rain triggered localized flooding in Lajeado. Municipal crews worked to clear debris, and authorities confirmed that power and essential services remained largely uninterrupted in the metropolitan region.

History of Statue Incidents

Havan’s oversized Statue of Liberty replicas are iconic features of its stores across Brazil. While designed for standard weather conditions, extreme events have caused issues in the past. In 2021, a similar statue fell in Capao da Canoa during a cyclone with 70–80 km/h winds, resulting only in material damage. Following the Guaiba collapse, engineering teams began inspections to identify potential structural weaknesses. Officials emphasized the importance of caution around tall structures during severe storms, noting that early warnings and rapid responses likely prevented a far more serious outcome.

About the Author

Sorit Chaudhary

Author

View All Posts