Tropical storm develops off the coast of Brazil, the first in almost 10 years

By Faith Eherts, AccuWeather meteorologist

Tropical Storm Iba formed off the southeastern coast of Brazil on Sunday afternoon, becoming the first tropical system to be identified in the area since 2010.

For the next 12-24 hours, the storm is expected to churn just offshore from the states of Bahia, Espírito Santo and Rio de Janeiro. Residents of cities such as Vitoria, Porto Seguro, Montes Carlos and Salvador will continue to contend with rounds of thunderstorms containing drenching downpours and gusty winds. 

Coastal areas can expected strong gales to persist for the next day or so as well, according to AccuWeather Meteorologist Tyler Roys. The Brazil Navy warns that winds of up to 50 mph (80 kph) are expected, with gusts as high as 60 mph (97 kph).

Travel disruptions can occur due to flooded roadways, limited visibility and strong winds.

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"Iba is expected to move southeastward away from the coast of Brazil, so any storms and winds will lessen over the next couple of days," he said. "A few more bands of gusty storms can move through coastal portions of Espírito Santo and Rio de Janeiro on Monday night, as well."

The risk for dangerous swells and rough surf will persist through Tuesday, so anyone going in the water will need to exercise extreme caution.

Roys also noted that this storm is not expected to strengthen as it moves out to sea, limiting the chances of Iba becoming a hurricane.

Sea-faring vessels will need to exercise caution in the coming days as Iba continues to produce swells and rough surf throughout the region.