Brazilian municipalities declare emergencies after severe storms and floods

The city of Guabiruba in Santa Catarina declared a state of emergency after a severe thunderstorm on 28 July 2026, which produced large hail, strong winds and extensive damage to homes, public buildings, commercial premises and rural properties. Municipal authorities activated emergency measures, provided temporary shelters and began compiling damage assessments to request state and federal assistance.

In Itatuba, Paraíba, officials issued an emergency decree following intense rainfall that caused flooded streets, damaged drainage systems, blocked rural roads and disrupted essential services such as health, education and social assistance. The local government launched reconstruction of washed‑out passages and reinforced compromised infrastructure.

São João de Meriti, Rio de Janeiro, set up a Crisis Management Office after gusts reached 104 km/h, toppling trees, damaging power lines and leaving many neighborhoods without electricity. The municipality recorded 106 incident reports and coordinated with the police, fire services and water agency to clear debris and restore power.

Ubatuba, São Paulo, faced two related challenges. Strong winds on 29 July 2026 felled numerous trees, damaged the electric network and blocked several roads, prompting the civil defence and municipal agencies to clear hazards and assist affected residents. Separately, the municipal fire brigade reported 356 drowning incidents between 1 January and 29 July 2026, rescuing 405 people alive and confirming nine fatalities. The city is expanding its seasonal lifeguard program to improve beach safety.