Devastating Floods Hit Southern Brazil
Porto Alegre – Strong rains have caused river levels to rise once again in southern Brazil, leading to widespread flooding that has resulted in over 140 deaths and displaced hundreds of thousands of residents.
Experts attribute the deluge to climate change exacerbated by the El Nino weather phenomenon, affecting more than two million people in the state of Rio Grande do Sul.
Rescue operations are ongoing with 130 people still missing, and the National Center for Monitoring and Warning for Natural Disasters (Cemaden) warns of a high risk of further flooding in most regions of the state.
Areas such as Porto Alegre and Pelotas remain underwater, with the Guaiba estuary experiencing rising water levels once again. The federal government has pledged $10 billion for reconstruction efforts in the affected regions.
President Lula da Silva Expresses Solidarity
President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva expressed solidarity with those affected by the floods, emphasizing that the government stands with the more than 80,000 people currently housed in shelters.
As heavy rain continues to fall, the situation remains critical in southern Brazil, with a high risk of major flooding and landslides in the coming days.