Porto Alegre, Canoas, and Sao Paulo: Heavy rains in Brazil’s southern state of Rio Grande do Sul have led to devastating flooding, resulting in a death toll of at least 78 and displacing over 115,000 people, according to local authorities. President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, accompanied by his cabinet members, visited the affected areas to discuss rescue and reconstruction efforts with local authorities.
The situation has been described as a “war scenario” by state governor Eduardo Leite, emphasizing the need for urgent post-war measures to address the widespread destruction caused by the floods. Volunteers have been instrumental in ongoing rescue efforts, utilizing boats, jet skis, and sheer determination to assist those trapped by the rising waters.
Despite the tireless efforts of volunteers, the death toll continues to rise, with 105 people reported missing on Sunday. The state civil defense authority is investigating whether an additional four deaths are related to the storm. The flooding has impacted over two-thirds of the state’s nearly 500 cities, causing significant damage to infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and even a dam at a small hydroelectric power plant.
As a result of the flooding, more than 400,000 people were left without power, while almost a third of the state’s population faced water shortages. In Porto Alegre, the Guaiba lake exceeded its highest water level on record, leading to the suspension of all flights at the international airport. The dire situation has prompted Pope Francis to offer prayers for the people of Rio Grande do Sul during his weekly address in Vatican City.
Amidst the devastation, stories of resilience and courage have emerged. In Porto Alegre, Fabiano Saldanha and his friends have rescued approximately 50 people using jet skis in the flooded city islands. Similarly, in Canoas, 76-year-old Julio Manichesque was rescued by volunteers after being stranded on the roof of his house for days. The community response to the crisis highlights the solidarity and determination of the Brazilian people in the face of adversity.
As rescue efforts continue and the full extent of the damage becomes clearer, authorities are working tirelessly to provide aid and support to those affected by the catastrophic flooding in Rio Grande do Sul. The road to recovery will be long and challenging, but with the unwavering spirit of unity and compassion, the people of Brazil stand together in solidarity to overcome this crisis.