Rains in Rio Grande do Sul: why the state is experiencing its second climate catastrophe in less than a year | The subject

A heroic rescue in the RS tragedy

Eight months ago, intense rains caused the death of more than 50 people in cities in Vale do Taquari, in the interior of Rio Grande do Sul. Now, the government says that the storm is “the biggest disaster in the state”.

In an interview with Natuza Nery, Climatempo meteorologist Cesar Soares explains why the southern region of the country is more at risk of suffering from new extreme weather events.

“At this very moment, we have a cold front that is channeling many areas of instability, and causing continuous rain” he explains. “What remains for this cold front is to cause more and more rain, bringing this persistent condition.”

Vítor Rosa, RBS reporter, cites some of the measures that were taken after the climate catastrophe in Vale do Taquari, but warns of the lack of effective communication from local authorities.

“People don’t know what they need to do. We end up realizing how serious it is when the authorities go public and talk, but sometimes it’s too late,” he says. “Where does the person go? Where is the shelter? Where is the safest place? People don’t know.”