Port of Santos closes for nearly four hours after 3-meter waves hit coast

A strong coastal swell prompted a Port of Santos closure of nearly four hours after waves exceeded 3 meters along the São Paulo coast, state civil defense authorities said.

São Paulo’s Civil Defense issued a high-surf warning for the Baixada Santista region and the entire state coastline. The Port of Santos, South America’s largest port, was closed to vessel traffic between late Monday, August 24, and the early hours of Tuesday, August 25, because of rough sea conditions.

According to the state Civil Defense, adverse conditions for navigation and other coastal activities are expected to continue until Wednesday, August 26.

The city of Santos was placed under a state of attention. Municipal authorities said there is a risk of localized flooding during high-tide periods, especially inside the estuary.

Port traffic resumes after weather improves

Brazil’s harbor master’s office ordered the Port of Santos closed to vessel traffic at 11:15 p.m. on Monday. Navigation resumed at 3:10 a.m. on Tuesday after maritime conditions improved.

According to São Paulo Pilots, four outbound vessel maneuvers and two inbound maneuvers were not confirmed during the disruption.

The brief Port of Santos closure underscores how severe sea conditions can temporarily affect vessel movements at Brazil’s largest maritime gateway, with potential impacts on port scheduling and ship berthing windows.

Source: G1