In a tragic turn of events, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil has been hit by severe weather conditions, causing devastating flooding and landslides. According to reports from the state government, the disaster has claimed the lives of 11 individuals, while another 18 people remain missing. The fatalities occurred across several municipalities, including Maquiné, São Leopoldo, Novo Hamburgo, Caraá, Bom Princípio, São Sebastião do Caí, Esteio, and Gravataí.

The impact of the calamity has been further exacerbated by extensive damage to homes, leaving over 4,000 people displaced from their residences. To address the urgent need for shelter, many of those affected have been provided with emergency accommodation in local schools and other public buildings.

The brave efforts of the Military Fire Department have been commendable, as they conducted approximately 2,400 rescues within a span of just two days. As of the latest update on 18 June, search and rescue teams are tirelessly working to locate several individuals reported missing, with particular focus on the areas of Caraá and Três Forquilhas.

The catastrophe has also severely disrupted transportation in the region, with at least seven major roads being blocked or closed to traffic. Moreover, a crucial bridge connecting Três Cachoeiras to Morrinhos do Sul has suffered significant damage, rendering it partially unusable.

Governor Eduardo Leite of Rio Grande do Sul visited the affected areas to assess the situation firsthand. In a statement, he emphasized, "Our main objective, in this first moment, is to protect and save human lives. We are dedicated to rescuing stranded individuals, locating missing persons, and providing comprehensive support to affected families. Our teams are actively engaged in the field, and the Secretariat for Logistics and Transport is diligently assessing compromised bridges and roads to ensure prompt emergency response and the restoration of passage in these areas."

Tragically, this recent bout of severe weather has impacted a total of 49 municipalities within the state. Heavy rainfall and strong winds have been the main culprits behind the widespread destruction. In Maquiné, an astounding 300 mm of rain fell within a mere 24-hour period. The Caí River, located in the municipality of Montenegro, experienced a sudden surge of over 2 meters, resulting in severe flooding.

Earlier in March 2023, the region also suffered from flooding, affecting various municipalities in the northern parts of the state. Homes and critical infrastructure were damaged during this previous disaster, and one life was tragically lost when a vehicle was swept away by the flooding of the Três Forquilhas river in Terra de Areia.

The authorities are working diligently to provide relief and support to those affected by the devastating floods and landslides. Efforts are being made to ensure the safety of individuals, locate missing persons, and restore vital infrastructure to facilitate normalcy in the affected areas.