:quality(85)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/infobae/HQN6SFZSQVAZDJMKC4I4OFMBKQ.jpg "New storms were announced in Rio Grande do Sul, and the situation could worsen")
New Storms Expected to Worsen Flooding Crisis in Southern Brazil
The situation in southern Brazil continues to worsen as heavy rains have caused flooding in hundreds of municipalities, leaving at least 91 dead and 1.4 million homeless. According to the National Institute of Meteorology (INMET), new storms are expected to hit the southernmost area of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, increasing the risk of further flooding.
Governor Eduardo Leite of Rio Grande do Sul has been closely monitoring the situation and is in constant contact with mayors of affected municipalities. The intense rains that began 10 days ago have caused an unprecedented rise in river levels, leading to extensive damage and flooding in Porto Alegre.
The Civil Defense has confirmed almost one hundred deaths, 131 missing persons, and 362 injured. The rainfall has affected more than 1.4 million people in 397 municipalities, causing shortages of food, medicine, and basic services. Rescue teams are working tirelessly to reach isolated survivors and provide essential supplies.
Humanitarian aid has started to arrive in Porto Alegre and other flood-affected areas, where residents are facing challenges accessing clean water and food. As lines form for drinking water, helicopters are delivering supplies to the most impacted communities. Solidarity and support from individuals and businesses with access to resources are crucial in the relief efforts.
President Lula has promised additional emergency funds to assist with the crisis, ensuring that resources are available to meet the needs of Rio Grande do Sul. The state’s Guaíba River remains at historic levels, and authorities are working relentlessly to rescue those stranded and provide assistance where needed.
Despite the challenges, rescue teams from neighboring countries like Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina have joined forces to support the ongoing relief efforts. The floods have significantly altered the landscape of the metropolitan region of Porto Alegre, prompting authorities to take swift action to address the crisis effectively.