Landslides and massive flooding kill dozens in Brazil
Heavy rainfall in Brazil’s southernmost state has resulted in widespread flooding and landslides, claiming the lives of 55 individuals, as confirmed by local authorities. An additional 74 people are reported missing in Rio Grande do Sul.
Since the onset of the storms last Saturday, approximately 25,000 residents have been displaced from their homes. Power and clean water shortages have affected around half a million people, compounded by the anticipation of further rainfall.
Rio Grande do Sul’s civil defense authorities have linked 55 deaths directly to the floods, with seven additional fatalities under investigation for potential connections.
The unusual weather patterns, characterized by above-average temperatures, high humidity, and strong winds, are identified as the primary catalysts.
Over half of the state’s 497 municipalities have felt the impact of the storms, witnessing infrastructure damage such as road and bridge destruction.
Tragically, a hydroelectric dam collapse near Bento Gonçalves claimed the lives of 30 individuals, while another dam in the vicinity remains at risk of collapse due to rising water levels.
In Porto Alegre, the state capital, the Guaíba River overflowed, submerging neighborhoods and inundating streets. Consequently, all flights from Porto Alegre’s international airport have been suspended indefinitely.
Amidst the devastation, a resident described the situation as “heartbreaking.”
“I live in this area, so I feel sorry for everyone who lives here. It’s very sad, and, regrettably, all this is happening,” Maria Luiza told the BBC.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has visited the region, promising help from the central government.
Meteorologists have predicted further rains to fall in the region as a cold front moves across it.
Last year, more than 30 people were killed in a cyclone in Rio Grande do Sul.
Brazil’s National Institute of Meteorology attributed the increased intensity and frequency of rainfall to the climate phenomenon El Niño.
