Rio Grande do Sul declares emergency amid widespread floods

The Federal Department of Civil Protection has declared a state of emergency for 17 municipalities in Rio Grande do Sul after intense rains caused landslides, flooding and strong winds. The emergency status allows local governments to request federal assistance for food, water, shelter kits and infrastructure repair.

At least 206 municipalities have reported flood‑related damage, with 680 people displaced across the state. The Guaíba lake in Porto Alegre, the Sinos River and other waterways have risen, prompting orange‑level alerts and the potential closure of flood‑control gates. Forecasts predict up to 200 mm of rain in 48 hours and a risk of additional severe thunderstorms, especially from Sunday through Wednesday.

Authorities continue to monitor river levels, issue warnings for the islands of Porto Alegre and advise residents to avoid flood‑prone areas, stay away from fast‑moving water and follow official instructions.