Rio Grande do Sul floods force evacuations and bridge closures as cold front triggers record rains

A powerful cold front has brought intense rainfall to Rio Grande do Sul and neighboring states, prompting the Instituto Nacional de Meteorologia (Inmet) to issue a red alert for more than 500 mm of rain in 24 hours in parts of the state. Rainfall rates of up to 44 cm per hour have caused rivers such as the Caí to rise rapidly; São Sebastião do Caí is expected to reach the 10‑metre flood level within hours.

The deluge has submerged bridges—most notably the bridge between Relvado and Encantado in the Vale do Taquari—forced road closures, and triggered evacuations in vulnerable areas of Santa Cruz do Sul and Venâncio Aires. Seven municipalities have been placed in a state of emergency, and damage has been reported in more than 70 towns, with 73 municipalities recording incidents ranging from roof loss and fallen trees to blocked highways and flooded schools.

State and municipal defense‑civil agencies continue to monitor river levels, issue orange and red alerts, and coordinate rescues, including the safe extraction of an 80‑year‑old driver from a submerged vehicle. Governor Eduardo Leite and local officials stress the need for residents to follow official guidance and avoid flooded areas as the storm system persists through the week.