From 24 April to 2 May 2024, above-average rainfall was recorded in 147 municipalities in the state of Rio Grande do Sul (southern Brazil), affecting a population of 67,860 inhabitants during this period. Subsequently, the rainfall extended to also affect the states of Paraná and Santa Catarina.
The torrential rains have continued and caused significant flooding and landslides in urban and rural areas of Rio Grande do Sul and other two states (Paraná and Santa Catarina), leading the Ministry of Integration and Regional Development of Brazil, along with federal and state authorities of Rio Grande do Sul, to declare a disaster situation in what they consider one of the region's major climatic disasters. The Ministry of Health activated the Emergency Operations Center on May 4 and, together with other federal and regional institutions, has mobilized resources, personnel, and materials to support the emergency response.
As of June 10, 2024, official data from the state of Rio Grande do Sul, the worst-hit state, reports 173 deaths, 38 missing persons, 423,486 displaced individuals, 18,854 people in shelters, and 806 injured.
Recognizing the urgent health risks posed by this crisis, the PAHO/WHO Brazil office has been working closely with the Ministry of Health of Brazil, the State Health Secretariat of Rio Grande do Sul, the National Civil Defense, and the Civil Defense of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, to coordinate the health sector's response actions to address the needs of the affected populations.
PAHO/WHO´s technical cooperation efforts have included recommendations on immunization for people in crisis situations; the deployment of a senior field epidemiologist to support the local Emergency Operations Committee; the implementation of the early warning system "EWARS in a box" to support epidemiological surveillance at local level; the delivery of emergency medical backpacks for patient care; and the strengthening of health emergency coordination mechanisms.
Highlights
Advice for the public
During the rainy season, some areas considered to be at risk are evacuated to ensure the safety of the population. At such times, it is important that the recommendations to vacate the premises are heeded.
Download this flyer on essential items in case of evacuation and share this content and help bring information to those who need it.
*Flyer available in Portuguese.