Guaiba River reaches 4.50 meters, causing flooding in streets, bus stations and Inter and Grêmio training centers; The number of deaths in the state rises to 37
Unlike 2023, when flooding only affected some areas, this week's phenomenon is predicted to impact rivers across the state. The level of the Guaiba River can reach 5 meters, surpassing the record set in 1941.
Flooding on Avenida Conceição, in Porto Alegre - Photo Reproduction/RBS TV
In recent days, the state of Rio Grande do Sul was surprised by a meteorological phenomenon of historic proportions. An intense rain drastically increased the level of the Guaiba River, reaching the alarming mark of 4.50 meters on the morning of this Friday (03), and continues to rise due to the heavy rains that have been affecting Rio Grande do Sul since last week, in addition to triggering a series of challenging consequences for the region's population and infrastructure. It is the highest record since the historic flood of 1941, when the level reached 4.76 meters. The flood mark is at 3 meters in the Cais Mauá area.
Situation in the State
Civil Defense issued an extreme flood warning late this morning, instructing the population to avoid all areas close to Guaíba and places of danger. The alert will remain in effect for 24 hours. On Friday afternoon, the organization issued a statement stating that the number of fatalities resulting from storms that ravage Rio Grande do Sul increased to 37. The list of cities where deaths occurred is available below. There are currently 74 people missing.
Unlike last year, when the rain was concentrated in some areas, such as Vale do Taquari, this time, the entire Rio Grande do Sul territory is being affected. In addition to the 37 fatal victims and 74 missing, 74 individuals were injured. Civil Defense estimates that around 31,547 people are homeless, of which 7,949 are in shelters and 23,598 have found temporary refuge with family or friends. A total of 235 of the state's 496 municipalities face various problems, impacting 351,639 people.
The government declared a state of calamity, a measure officially recognized by the federal government. This measure empowers the state to request financial assistance from the central government for civil defense actions, including humanitarian aid, infrastructure reconstruction and restoration of essential services. Governor Eduardo Leite (PSDB) warned of the challenges that lie ahead, asking people to leave their homes and highlighting the priority of preserving lives, even if it means facing material losses.
As for the rest, he assured that measures will be taken later. Leite reiterated that this crisis is a disaster for the state, comparing the situation in Rio Grande do Sul to a war scenario.
Rescues
Civil Defense warned of the risk of flooding in several river basins in the state. In response, the federal government mobilized 100 members of the National Force to Rio Grande do Sul on Friday afternoon. This team will be essential in rescue operations and assistance to people affected by the floods. Among those deployed, 60 are firefighters, ready to support the response to disasters caused by storms. In addition, 25 pickup trucks, two buses, a truck and three rescue boats will be sent. A total of 36 federal police officers are also directly involved in these relief operations.
Seventy-five agents from the Federal Highway Police (PRF) were also mobilized to participate in rescue and rescue operations for flood victims, along with seven specialists in this type of rescue.
Flooding
The Porto Alegre bus station is flooded, resulting in the suspension of 95% of trips, as reported by the operations manager, Jorge Rosa. However, he assures that passengers who have already purchased tickets have not been harmed. Both the Trade Shopkeepers Union (Sindilojas) and the Chamber of Shopkeepers (CDL) of Porto Alegre issued guidelines for the closure of commercial establishments in the Historic Center and the 4th District.
Internacional announced the closure of the Parque Gigante Training Center (CT), on the banks of the Guaiba, in order to guarantee the safety of athletes and employees. Meanwhile, Grêmio's Luiz Carvalho Training Center was also affected by heavy rain. The water invaded the Grêmio complex, completely flooding Rua João Moreira Maciel, where the entrance to the CT is located. In response, on Thursday (2), Porto Alegre City Hall ordered the closure of the flood protection system floodgates.
