Strong Winds Topple 24-Meter Replica of Statue of Liberty in Brazil

A replica of the iconic Statue of Liberty, standing at 24 meters tall, collapsed in Brazil due to strong winds. The incident occurred in the city of Guaíba, located in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, on December 15, 2025. Local reports indicate that the statue, which was situated in front of a Havan retail store, fell during severe gusts that at times reached speeds of up to 90 kilometers per hour.

The mayor of Guaíba, Marcelo Maranata, confirmed the event, stating that fortunately, there were no injuries reported. The dramatic collapse was captured on video, showcasing the moment the 40-meter structure toppled in a parking lot across from a McDonald’s. This replica was one of several located throughout Brazil, celebrating the famous U.S. landmark.

Initial assessments suggest that the high winds and stormy conditions caused the statue’s structure to lean before ultimately succumbing to the forces of nature. The sculpture, along with its base, had a total height of 35 meters, and the falling statue suffered damage upon impact.

As the community comes to terms with the loss, images of the incident have circulated widely, drawing attention to both the replica’s significance and the challenges posed by extreme weather conditions. Local authorities are evaluating the damage and considering safety measures for similar structures in the future.

In the aftermath, discussions about the preservation of such replicas, especially in areas prone to severe weather, are likely to gain momentum.