The dam at Represa do Gramado in Embu-Guaçu, Greater São Paulo, burst early Tuesday (January 20), leading to the collapse of a nearby bridge. No injuries were reported, though two houses were impacted and part of a local road became impassable. São Paulo's Public Prosecutor's Office (MPSP) has launched an inquiry into the causes and public response measures.
On the morning of January 20, around 3 a.m., the Represa do Gramado dam burst in Embu-Guaçu, in Greater São Paulo. The event triggered the collapse of a nearby wooden bridge, isolating the area and disrupting local traffic. According to the Civil Defense, no injuries occurred, but two homes were affected, and part of a road became impassable, with the site properly cordoned off and marked for safety. São Paulo's Public Prosecutor's Office (MPSP), through the Embu-Guaçu Justice Prosecutor's Office, promptly initiated a civil inquiry to examine the breach's causes and the authorities' responses. In a statement, the MPSP explained that official notices were sent to Embu-Guaçu municipality, the Military and Civil Fire Departments, Civil Defense, and the State Water Agency, requesting details and actions to reduce damage and avert further risks. The investigation will also address evident hazards, such as a potential collapse of the Ribeirão Vermelho Bridge, which could flood the Cipozinho, Granjinha, and Vila Chunck neighborhoods, as warned by the Public Prosecutor's Office.
