At Least Ten Dead in Storms in Brazil

Heavy rains in southern Brazil have triggered floods. At least ten people have died, and many others have lost their homes. There is no sign of relief yet, as the rains are expected to continue until Friday.

Intense rains have caused flooding in the state of Rio Grande do Sul in southern Brazil. Since the onset of the rains on Monday, authorities report that at least ten people have lost their lives. More than 1,000 people have been left homeless, and over 20 individuals are still missing, according to civil defense.

Authorities have reported numerous flooded roads, landslides, and collapsed bridges. The power and water supply have also been partially disrupted. The Governor of Rio Grande do Sul, Eduardo Leite, urged residents of several regions on Wednesday evening (local time) to evacuate to safety. He described the situation as war-like.

Rising water levels expected

The military has been involved in the rescue operation, including five helicopters. The particularly affected area is the Taquari Valley, known in Germany for its history of migration. In the 19th century, Germans emigrated to the region, and to this day, a minority speaks the Riograndenser Hunsrückisch dialect there.

The region was already hit by storms and floods last September, resulting in at least 42 deaths. “Unfortunately, this year’s situation is likely to be worse than in 2023,” said Governor Leite. River levels are rising, and there is also a risk of landslides.

President Announces Visit to Disaster Area

Given the disaster, the state’s crisis cabinet assembled. “The situation at dams is particularly concerning as they are on high alert, facing collapse and flooding risks due to the very high water levels,” said Vice Governor Gabriel Souza.

Governor Leite requested assistance from Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on the X online messaging service. The President also announced on X that he would personally visit the affected areas today. Authorities suggest that the rains are expected to continue until Friday.

In March, severe storms in southeastern Brazil resulted in at least 25 deaths. President da Silva identified climate change as one of the causes back then.