Southern Brazil is reeling from the aftermath of relentless rains, as the death toll in the state of Rio Grande do Sul climbed to 56, with approximately 70 individuals still unaccounted for, according to local authorities’ updates on May 4 morning.
The civil defense authority of Rio Grande do Sul reported that 67 people remained missing, while nearly 25,000 individuals have been displaced by the catastrophic storms, which have battered more than half of the state’s 497 cities. Situated along the borders of Uruguay and Argentina, Rio Grande do Sul has been inundated by floods, which have ravaged infrastructure, including roads and bridges, and triggered landslides.
The calamity extended to the collapse of a dam at a small hydroelectric power plant, exacerbating the scope of the disaster. Authorities have also raised concerns about the potential collapse of a second dam in Bento Goncalves, heightening fears of further destruction and loss of life.
In the state capital, Porto Alegre, the Guaiba river burst its banks, inundating streets and exacerbating the crisis. The severity of the situation prompted the suspension of all flights at Porto Alegre’s international airport indefinitely.
State Governor Eduardo Leite cautioned that the death toll may rise further as rescue and recovery efforts continue amidst challenging conditions. With forecasts predicting additional rainfall in northern regions of the state on May 4, the National Institute of Meteorology has issued warnings, urging residents in at-risk areas to seek shelter and exercise caution.
The unfolding tragedy in southern Brazil underscores the urgent need for coordinated response efforts to address the humanitarian crisis and mitigate further harm. As communities grapple with the devastation wrought by the floods, authorities are mobilizing resources to provide assistance to those affected and ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable populations.
The resilience of the Brazilian people will be tested as they come together to confront the aftermath of this natural disaster, with solidarity and support from both within the country and the international community crucial in the recovery and rebuilding process.