Replica Statue of Liberty collapses in Brazil amid strong winds, probe ordered | WATCH

A large replica of the Statue of Liberty collapsed on Monday outside a megastore in Guaíba, near Porto Alegre in Brazil’s Rio Grande do Sul metropolitan area, after the region was hit by strong gusty winds. Fortunately, no one was injured in the incident.

The 24-metre-tall structure was installed in the parking area of a Havan retail store. Videos of the moment have since gone viral on social media, showing the statue tilting before crashing to the ground as high-speed winds battered the area. Several vehicles were parked nearby at the time of the collapse, but authorities confirmed that no damage to life was reported.

Sharing the video on X, one user wrote, “Meanwhile in Brazil... Strong Winds just toppled this replica statue of Liberty.”

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Probe launched

In an official statement, the Havan retail chain said the replica was constructed in line with the country’s technical standards. The company added that an internal investigation has been initiated to understand what led to the collapse, while also noting that timely action helped avoid any casualties.

“The area was immediately isolated by the company, following all safety protocols,” the statement said. “A technical inspection will be carried out to determine the exact cause of the collapse and to assess whether any other factors, beyond extreme weather, played a role.”

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Brazilian authorities have also announced a separate probe into the incident. Guaíba Mayor Marcelo Maranata praised local officials and emergency teams for their swift response in securing the area and preventing injuries.

Storm warning issued

The collapse occurred after a storm warning had already been issued for the metropolitan region. Officials said the area recorded wind speeds exceeding 90 kmph, triggered by an incoming cold front. Authorities added that weather conditions are expected to improve from Tuesday onwards.