A fierce storm wreaked havoc across southern Brazil, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 21 lives. Moreover, it caused catastrophic flooding in numerous cities, according to local authorities. The Governor of Rio Grande do Sul, Eduardo Leite, described this climate event as the deadliest in the state’s history. He revealed that approximately 60 cities bore the brunt of the storm, classified as an extratropical cyclone.
Tragically, 15 of the reported deaths occurred within a single residence in Mucum, a city with around 50,000 residents. The devastating impact of the storm extended beyond the loss of lives, as the Rio Grande do Sul state government reported that as of Monday night. Around 1,650 people had been displaced from their homes due to the flooding.
Mass Displacement: Thousands Rendered Homeless
Heart-wrenching scenes unfolded on television screens, showing families stranded on the rooftops of their houses. They were desperately seeking assistance as rivers swelled and breached their banks. In response to the dire situation, the city hall of Mucum issued a recommendation for residents to gather necessary supplies to sustain themselves for the next 72 hours. Meanwhile, rescue and relief efforts raced against the clock.
Tragic Rescue Attempt Claims More Lives
Governor Leite also lamented a tragic incident involving the loss of a woman’s life during a rescue attempt over the Taquari River. He expressed his condolences on social media, saying, “I regret the death of a woman in a rescue attempt over the Taquari River. The wire broke, and she and a rescuer fell. Unfortunately, the woman did not survive, and the rescuer is seriously injured.”
This disaster marks the second time that Rio Grande do Sul has been struck by an extratropical cyclone in recent months. In June, another such event claimed the lives of 16 people. It caused widespread destruction in approximately 40 cities, particularly in the vicinity of the state capital, Porto Alegre.
The authorities in southern Brazil are now focused on providing immediate aid to those affected by the recent storm. Including shelter, food, and medical assistance. Moreover, they work to assess the full extent of the damage and initiate recovery efforts in the affected regions.