By HeapNews
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is providing vital support to communities in Brazil’s southern state of Rio Grande do Sul after torrential rains displaced more than 5,000 people and left 132 municipalities battered by floodwaters. Four people have died, one is missing, and over 1,000 residents are sheltering in temporary facilities, local authorities reported.
Jaguari municipality has declared a state of public calamity, while 21 others have announced states of emergency, coming just one year after record-breaking floods struck the region.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the families who lost loved ones and stand with the thousands who have been forced to flee their homes,” said Paolo Caputo, IOM Chief of Mission in Brazil. “Communities in Rio Grande do Sul have shown remarkable strength, but they should not have to face these crises alone. As extreme weather events become more frequent and intense, humanitarian action must go hand in hand with investments in preparedness and resilience.”
Since the floods began in mid-June, IOM has partnered with federal, state, and local authorities to assess urgent needs, bolster preparedness, and deliver direct assistance. The Organization’s existing presence — scaled up during the 2024 emergency — has enabled a rapid and coordinated response across the region.
In 2024, IOM played a central role in operating Humanitarian Reception Centers, or CHAs, in Porto Alegre and Canoas, which housed more than 1,000 people for nearly a year. Non-food supplies from those centers have now been distributed to temporary shelters, ensuring continuity of support as the crisis continues.
“IOM is now focused on long-term recovery,” Caputo added. “We will continue to offer technical guidance, help assess ongoing needs, and work alongside authorities to make sure this response reaches the most vulnerable, allowing communities to rebuild safely and sustainably.”
As the region looks toward recovery, IOM reaffirmed its commitment to standing by the people of Rio Grande do Sul and called for sustained support to help displaced families regain stability in the weeks and months ahead.