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The Devastating Floods in Rio Grande do Sul

Adwin van Dijke • Sep 30, 2024

The floods in Rio Grande do Sul have highlighted the urgent need for a proactive approach to water management. By joining forces, the Netherlands and Brazil can work together towards a sustainable future for the affected region.

Dam in Ceará

The floods that ravaged Rio Grande do Sul in May 2024 had a profound impact on the state, causing significant economic and social damage. The estimated losses of 87 billion reais (over €14.2 billion) underscore the urgency of finding sustainable solutions for water management in the region.



Dutch Expertise for a Resilient Rio Grande do Sul

Against this backdrop, the Netherlands, with its long history of water management, has played an active role. The Dutch Disaster Risk Reduction and Surge Support Team (DRRS) conducted an extensive analysis of the situation in Rio Grande do Sul. Through discussions with local authorities, experts, and affected residents, the team gained a deep understanding of the causes of the floods and the necessary measures to be taken.


The DRRS report contains concrete recommendations for improving water safety in the region, focusing on:

  • Improving existing infrastructure: The report evaluates the current state of dikes, pumping stations, and other hydraulic structures and advises on necessary reinforcements and modernizations.
  • Developing integrated water management plans: The report emphasizes the need for a holistic approach, taking into account both short-term and long-term challenges in water management.
  • Cooperation between different levels of government: The report highlights the importance of effective cooperation between federal, state, and municipal governments to implement the recommendations.
  • Involvement of local communities: It is essential that local communities are involved in the development and implementation of solutions so that they meet the specific needs and circumstances of the region.


Sharing Dutch Expertise with Brazil

Dutch knowledge and experience in water management can make a valuable contribution to the reconstruction and strengthening of Rio Grande do Sul. By working together, the Netherlands and Brazil can develop sustainable solutions that not only mitigate the effects of future extreme weather events but also contribute to a resilient and prosperous region.


Of course, the focus is now on Rio Grande do Sul, but floods are also occurring or threatening to occur in the rest of Brazil. In coastal areas, there has been much more rainfall in recent years. This puts all kinds of infrastructure under pressure and critical attention must be paid to water management in all states. Accompanied was in Ceará in August and is committed to making the necessary adjustments so that dams and dikes in this state can also withstand climate change.


The DRRS report can be downloaded here:

In English:
https://english.rvo.nl/files/file/2024-08/DRRS%20Porto%20Alegre%20-%20final%20report%2025%20August%202024%20EN_0.pdf

In Portuguese:

https://english.rvo.nl/files/file/2024-08/DRRS%20Porto%20Alegre%20-%20final%20report%2025%20August%202024%20PT_0.pdf


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