Rio Grande do Sul floods explained: everything you need to know about the ongoing crisis

What is happening in Brazil right now?

Rio Grande do Sul, the most southern state of Brazil, home to 11 million “gauchos” (pronounced [gauu], term to designate Rio Grande do Sul habitants), is submerged by water. Continuous rain since April 27 has overflown the many rivers of the area, raising water levels to up to 6 meters above usual height. The unprecedented flood is affecting 425 of the 497 towns of the region where 395 000 people have been evacuated when their homes were taken by water. While the Brazilian government reports dealing with the situation like facing war, efforts of volunteers, firefighters and of the army rescue thousands of locals by boats and helicopter every day. Having lost everything and with nowhere to go, the new climate refugees are sent to shelters relying entirely on the work and donations of local volunteers. Local communities have rapidly organized a supply distribution network to take food and first necessities to those in need. But how long will this last line of defense hold?

What catastrophe is hitting Brazil?

Side effects of this flood are also turning into impossible problems. As water invades vital structures and destroys electronic systems, power outages and water shortages are affecting 1.7 million people. Transport is partially paralyzed due to landslides blocking roads and bridge collapses.

How many deaths in Rio Grande do Sul?

With 107 deaths and 136 still missing, the search for isolated survivors goes on. In this fight against water, united citizens combine their efforts to save as many lives as possible, leaving restorations to a later date.

Why are there floods in Rio Grande do Sul?

Porto Alegre, the capital and most populous city of the region, stands between 5 rivers forming the delta do Jacui and the Guaiba lake, making it extremely vulnerable to sudden water surges. Since it hosts most public service systems, the city's shut down affects aid effectiveness of the entire region: the airport for example is on lockdown until May 30th. In Sao Leopoldo, another major city, 80 percent of the population has already been displaced. While the total value of the damage is unknown and the paralyzed economy makes tomorrow uncertain, a second wave of torrential rain is set to pour over the region across the next week. When water levels are about to start decreasing, the additional rainfall will prolong the flood if it doesn't worsen it.

How long until water levels go down in Rio Grande do Sul?

Besides, gauchos have to face the rise of new security problems and setbacks on water drainage that could push back clearing of submerged areas past the initial two months announced by authorities. These estimates leave little hope for refugees whose options are slim until Brasilia announces official measures and presents a clear rehabilitation plan, which it has yet to do.

How can I help with the floods in Brazil?

You can help. If this is reaching you it is not too late. The next months will be incredibly difficult for everyone here, and international donations are essential to slowly rebuild what was gone in instants. Visit the regional government Instagram to learn more about the impact you can make. 

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