Calay News
A cyclone hit southern Brazil, causing heavy rains and strong winds that left at least 13 people dead and three missing. The phenomenon affected several municipalities in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, including the capital, Porto Alegre. Winds reached speeds of up to 101.9 km/h in the town of Tramanda. The death toll rose to 13, including a four-month-old baby. Authorities continue to search for the missing in the city of Caraá, one of the most affected areas.
The governor of Rio Grande do Sul, Eduardo Leite, headed a rescue mission and stated that the main objective was to protect and save human lives, as well as provide support to the affected families. Sao Leopoldo was one of the hardest-hit cities, with 246 mm of rain in 18 hours, which set an all-time record. In some areas, streets were flooded, and several houses were destroyed.
Rescue work has been carried out by firefighters, who have rescued some 2,400 people in the affected areas. In addition, helicopter evacuations have been carried out. In total, 4,913 people suffered damage to their homes, and 797 were evacuated from at-risk areas. Approximately 84,000 families are without power in the region.
The local government has set up a community center as a temporary shelter for those who lost their homes in the town of Caraá. Climate change and uncontrolled urbanization are seen as contributing factors to the frequency and severity of extreme weather events in Brazil.
In summary, the cyclone in southern Brazil has caused significant human and material losses, with heavy rains, strong winds, and damage in several locations. Authorities are working to rescue those affected, provide support, and assess the damage caused. The country faces ongoing challenges in terms of adapting to and managing the effects of climate change on its territory.
