Heavy Rains Lead to Unprecedented Flooding in Southern Brazil

 BRAZIL


Heavy Rains Lead to Unprecedented Flooding in Southern Brazil

May 13, 2024


Beginning April 28, 2024, heavy rains have inundated the state of Rio Grande do Sul in southern Brazil. These intense, continued rains have led to widespread flooding. Damage to roadways and other infrastructure has made it difficult for many to flee. It is estimated that over 2.1 million people have been affected. Currently, more than 125 persons are reported missing and at least 147 have died.


Effect on Our Brothers and Sisters


Sadly, 1 brother and 1 sister, an elderly married couple, were killed


1,544 brothers and sisters were evacuated


2 homes were destroyed


155 homes sustained major damage


483 homes sustained minor damage


3 Kingdom Halls sustained major damage


10 Kingdom Halls sustained minor damage


Relief Efforts


A Disaster Relief Committee (DRC) has been assigned to coordinate relief efforts. Members of the DRC traveled to the affected area to assist with distributing supplies and to provide spiritual support


Circuit overseers and local elders are providing much-needed spiritual and practical assistance to those affected by the disaster


Witness families in safer areas of the country are providing temporary housing to their displaced brothers and sisters


As the flooding and devastation continue, we pray that Jehovah remains a ‘fortress in this time of distress’ for our brothers and sisters in Brazil.—Psalm 37:39.


In the photo: Floodwaters covering the city of Eldorado do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

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