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The partial collapse of the 14 de Julho Dam, which occurred on May 2, 2024, worsened the already critical situation in Rio Grande do Sul, affecting more than 850.000 people, after intense rains raised the levels of the Rio das Antas, causing flooding and extensive damage in infrastructures such as bridges and roads in several municipalities, including Porto Alegre.
Rio Grande do Sul is experiencing one of the greatest tragedies in its history due to the partial collapse of the 14 de Julho Dam, located between Cotiporã and Bento Gonçalves. This event occurred in a context of intense rains, which had already left a trail of destruction across the state, affecting more than 850.000 people.
On May 2, 2024, the structure of the 14 de Julho Dam, which is crucial part of the system hydroelectric plant in the region, which supplies energy to more than 180.000 homes, suffered a partial failure. This incident occurred due to the extraordinary rise of the Rio das Antas, caused by heavy rains that reached levels above 200 mm, saturating the soil and dangerously raising river levels in the region.
Floods destroyed vital infrastructure such as bridges and roads
The consequences of the rupture were immediate and severe, initially affecting the city of Faria Lemos and quickly spreading to other locations until reaching Porto Alegre. The flood destroyed vital infrastructure such as bridges and roads, isolating communities and hampering rescue and aid operations.
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Immediately before the disaster, local authorities had already activated the emergency plan, with evacuation sirens warning the population of risk areas. Despite these efforts, the rapid advance of waters made evacuation and rescue operations difficult, increasing the number of homeless and displaced people.
Temporary shelters were established, and food, clothing and basic items donation campaigns were organized
The government of Rio Grande do Sul, together with Civil Defense and federal support, mobilized resources to minimize the impact of the disaster, but the great help really came from the local population and civilian volunteers. Temporary shelters were established, and relief campaigns food donation, clothes and basic items were organized. The solidarity of Brazilians proved to be fundamental, with numerous donations and logistical support coming from different parts of the country.
The road to recovery is long and challenging. Reconstruction of affected areas and restoration of basic services such as drinking water and electricity are priorities. The 14 de Julho dam, now under rigorous technical evaluation, represents a case study on the need to reinforce critical infrastructure in response to climate change and extreme weather events.
