Official government communications

Brazil Floods: 29 Dead, 60 Missing in Rio Grande do Sul, State of Emergency Declared

May 2, 2024, 04:40 PM

Severe flooding in Brazil's southern state of Rio Grande do Sul has resulted in at least 29 deaths, 60 people missing, and 5,257 displaced. The region has experienced catastrophic flooding due to torrential rains, leading to a state of public calamity declaration and a state of emergency. The intense rainfall, which accounted for about 70% of the region's monthly precipitation in just a few days, caused significant damage, including the collapse of the 14 de Julho dam. This disaster has left many without power and clean water. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva visited the affected area to oversee the response efforts.