As a consequence of four consecutive days of intense rainfall, floods, and mudslides in the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, Governor Eduardo Leite confirmed the occurrence of the worst storms in the region. The calamity resulted in the loss of 29 lives, with an additional 60 individuals currently unaccounted for.
Expressing his concerns, Leite anticipated a further increase in the death toll, marking these storms as the most severe natural disaster in the state’s history, which is known for its significant agricultural and livestock production.
Recently, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva paid a visit to Santa Maria, one of the hardest-hit cities in the state, where he held discussions with Governor Leite on the unfolding crisis.
Lula pledged federal support and financial assistance to aid in the emergency response efforts within the state, located adjacent to Uruguay and Argentina.
In his commitment to addressing the crisis, the president affirmed, “The federal government stands ready to provide essential support for healthcare, transportation, and food supplies without any limitations. We will mobilize all available resources, be it through government ministries, civil organizations, or the military, to meet the critical needs of the flood-affected population.”
With an anticipation of continued precipitation, Governor Leite urged residents to evacuate to higher ground and avoid areas susceptible to flooding, as identified by the civil defense agency.
Currently, 4,400 individuals have been successfully evacuated, while thousands await rescue as their homes remain submerged in water.
Reports from the civil defense agency indicate that 154 cities across the region have been impacted by the adverse weather conditions and resultant natural disasters.