Torrential rainstorms have struck Brazil’s Rio Grande do Sul, leading to catastrophic flooding, dozens of deaths, and massive displacement.
Lauren Herdman reports for The Guardian.
In short:
- Rio Grande do Sul experienced its worst flooding in 80 years, with rainfalls between 20-40 inches.
- The storms caused a small hydroelectric dam to partially collapse, sending a large wave through the surrounding areas.
- Climate experts link the devastation to global heating and the El Niño weather pattern.
Why this matters:
Extreme weather events like these highlight the devastating impacts of climate change and El Niño, leaving communities vulnerable and underscoring the urgency for global action on climate resilience and disaster management. Read more: Nowhere to go in New Bern: Climate catastrophe spurs migrants in US South.
