El Niño intensifies flood risk in Brazil’s Santa Catarina

The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) confirmed in June 2026 that a strong to very strong El Niño has formed, assigning an 88 % probability of high intensity. The warming of Pacific surface waters alters global atmospheric circulation, bringing heavier rains to southern Brazil. In the state of Santa Catarina, the phenomenon is linked to an increased frequency of intense rainstorms, raising the danger of floods, landslides and flash floods.

Across Brazil, El Niño is expected to suppress rainfall in the North, Northeast and parts of the Southeast, while extending the stay of cold fronts over the South, especially in Paraná, Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul. Authorities stress the need for continuous monitoring and public alerts.

Santa Catarina’s Civil Defense offers several free alert channels: SMS registration via code 40199, WhatsApp assistance, Cell Broadcast messages that reach phones in high‑risk zones without prior sign‑up, and regular updates on its website and social‑media pages. Residents are urged to check official warnings, avoid sharing unverified information, and follow safety guidance, including contacting emergency numbers (199 for Civil Defense, 193 for fire services) if immediate danger arises.