Brasília, 24 June 2025 – In the wake of heavy rains that have battered Brazil’s southern state of Rio Grande do Sul since mid-June, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) is supporting response efforts to assist affected communities. More than 5,000 people have been displaced, with over 1,000 currently staying in temporary shelters. Local authorities report four deaths, one person missing, and damage across 132 municipalities.
The municipality of Jaguari has declared a state of public calamity, while 21 others have issued a state of emergency. These floods come just one year after Rio Grande do Sul experienced its most severe floods on record, with many of the same communities once again forced to abandon their homes.
“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. We remain committed to working alongside authorities and partners to help people rebuild their lives with dignity.”
Since the beginning of this year’s floods, IOM has been supporting federal, state and local authorities to assess needs, reinforce preparedness, and provide direct assistance to people affected. The Organization’s presence and partnerships in the region, scaled up during the 2024 emergency, have enabled a quick and coordinated response.
In 2024, IOM played a central role in managing Humanitarian Reception Centers, known locally as CHAs, in the cities of Porto Alegre and Canoas. These centres hosted more than 1,000 people over nearly a year, providing emergency shelter, basic services, and a pathway toward recovery. Non-food items previously used in the CHAs were handed over to the Government of Rio Grande do Sul or donated to municipalities, which are now redistributing them to temporary shelters for families displaced by the ongoing floods.
Beyond the delivery of relief items, IOM is now focused on supporting recovery efforts through technical guidance, helping authorities carry out needs assessments and plan for sustainable solutions. The goal is to ensure that the response reaches those most in need and that systems are in place to help communities recover safely and sustainably.
IOM remains committed to supporting the people of Rio Grande do Sul as they address both the immediate and longer-term impacts of this latest disaster. While affected communities continue to show remarkable resilience, additional support will be essential to help displaced families regain stability and access the services they need in the coming weeks and months.
For more information, please visit IOM’s Media Centre.