Local authorities in Brazil’s southernmost state of Rio Grande do Sul reported on Friday that heavy rains have claimed the lives of 39 people, with the death toll expected to climb as dozens remain unaccounted for.
The civil defense authority of Rio Grande do Sul disclosed that 68 individuals are still missing, and over 24,000 residents have been displaced by the relentless storms, impacting more than half of the state’s 497 cities bordering Uruguay and Argentina.
Governor Eduardo Leite emphasized the fluidity of the situation, stating, “These numbers can still materially change over the following days as we gain access to more regions.”
The severe weather has transformed streets into rivers, destroyed roads and bridges, triggered landslides, and caused the partial collapse of a dam structure at a hydroelectric power plant. Authorities also raised concerns about a second dam in Bento Goncalves, urging nearby residents to evacuate.
In the capital city of Porto Alegre, the Guaiba river overflowed, submerging streets and obstructing access to historic central neighborhoods.
Rio Grande do Sul’s unique geographical location, where tropical and polar atmospheres converge, contributes to volatile weather patterns characterized by alternating periods of heavy rains and drought. Local scientists attribute the intensification of these patterns to climate change.
Last September, the state experienced devastating floods that claimed over 50 lives, following a prolonged drought spanning more than two years due to the La Nina phenomenon.
President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva visited affected areas on Thursday to assess the situation and discuss rescue efforts with Governor Leite. In Brasilia, President Lula pledged government support for local rescue and reconstruction endeavors.
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