What:

Heavy flooding has been reported in Brazil’s southern Rio Grande do Sul state. Heavy rainfall began in Rio Grande do Sul on 27th April. The flooding has led to the death of 85 people, at least 130 missing, and displacement of more than 150,000 people. The damage from the storm has affected nearly 150 municipalities in the state, with damages to key infrastructure like roads, bridges, and homes.

Why:

Brazil’s National Institute of Meteorology attributed the increased intensity and frequency of rainfall to the climate phenomenon El Niño. The El Nino weather condition has historically caused droughts in the north and intense rainfall in the south of Brazil.

So What:

• The authorities have declared a state of emergency, and rescue operations are ongoing. Classes have been suspended across the state.
• The flooding has destroyed bridges, blocked roads, and disrupted telephone and internet services. Hundreds of thousands of people have no access to drinking water.
• A dam at a small hydroelectric power plant located between Cotipora and Bento Goncalves burst on 02nd May, leading to disruptions in electricity to more than 300,000 people.
• The National Institute of Meteorology (Inmet) has forecasted rains to continue in the northern and north-eastern regions of the state. However, the volume of precipitation is likely to decline. River water levels are expected to stay high for some days.
• The Salgado Filho airport in Porto Alegre on 03rd May announced the suspension of all operations until further notice. Travelers are advised to contact airlines for information about their flights.
• Authorities have asked people to avoid areas along state highways due to the risk of mudslides and urged people living near rivers and on hillsides to evacuate.

Outlook:

The flooding in Brazil has resulted in large-scale destruction and disruptions. Supply chains are likely to remain affected due to the blockage of main highways in southern Brazil. Flight disruptions are expected to continue. The precipitation levels are forecasted to decline, but the disruptions can continue further due to ongoing rescue and cleanup operations. Authorities are advised to stay updated on the weather conditions and alerts issued and ensure adherence to advisories published by authorities. The weather updates can be accessed on Inmet’s official website (https://portal.inmet.gov.br/).