The Brazilian Congress approved a decree declaring a public calamity in Rio Grande do Sul due to heavy rains and floods. This allows the federal government to allocate resources to combat the crisis, bypassing budgetary restrictions. The state of calamity will be in effect until the end of the year.
The floods have affected over 1.4 million people, resulting in 95 deaths and 128 missing individuals. The state has authorized BRL 580 million for flood relief efforts in cities across the region.
The situation has led to major disruptions in Porto Alegre, the state capital, with the airport closed indefinitely and a significant population without water supply. Governor Eduardo Leite described it as a “war-like scenario.”
As a response, the U.S. Consulate in Porto Alegre has temporarily closed, and Brazilian football matches in the state have been postponed. The crisis continues to unfold, highlighting the urgent need for assistance and support.