Overview of the Situation
The death toll from heavy rains in Brazil’s southernmost state of Rio Grande do Sul has risen to 29, with 60 people missing and 10,242 displaced in 154 cities. The state government has declared a state of public calamity to address the crisis.
Extent of Devastation
The storms have caused the most significant destruction in recent state history, surpassing previous incidents. More than 300,000 individuals are without electricity due to a dam burst at a hydroelectric plant.
Government Response
State Governor Eduardo Leite described the situation as the most critical in the state’s history and emphasized the need for coordinated rescue efforts. President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has pledged federal support and assistance to manage the emergency.
Call for Assistance
Both state and federal authorities are mobilizing resources to address the aftermath of the storms. Governor Leite has urged for full-force rescue operations, highlighting the risks posed by the ongoing climate events.
Previous Natural Disasters
Brazil has experienced a series of natural disasters, including last year’s landslides and flooding in Sao Paulo state, which claimed the lives of over 50 individuals.
