Rio Grande do Sul declares state of calamity due to rains

Eduardo Leite, governor of the southern Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul, on Wednesday declared a state of calamity due to the extreme rainfall over the last few days. An official statement says Rio Grande do Sul was hit by “climatic events such as intense rain, flooding, hail, floods, flash floods, and wind storms.” The emergency state will last for 180 days.

Mr. Leite suspended classes at state schools for Thursday and Friday. He called for “all efforts” to rescue people and save lives.

According to state authorities, 13 people have died in the current crisis and 21 others are missing. Floods have caused landslides, damaged homes, and blocked roads. Over 5,200 people have been displaced, and over 3,000 are in shelters.

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva visited the state today and met with Mr. Leite in the city of Santa Maria. An ongoing Armed Forces search and rescue operation in the region has employed five helicopters, 12 ships, and 626 troops from the Navy, Army, and Air Force. The military is also handing out water, food, and donations.

Lula said on social media that the federal government “will join the efforts of the state government and city halls to get us through and overcome this difficult time, a reflection of the climate changes affecting the planet.” During a speech in Santa Maria, Lula said the government will do everything in its reach to repair damage and minimize losses.