World Bank Promises Emergency Aid for Southern Brazil After Devastating Floods

The World Bank has stepped in to provide emergency support to Rio Grande do Sul, a state in southern Brazil that has been devastated by recent rains and floods. The death toll from the historic floods has reached 136, with many more still missing and injured.

Approximately US$125 million in resources from ongoing projects are being reallocated to provide immediate assistance to the affected population. The funds come from various projects such as the “Urban Resilience Programme in Southern Brazil” and the “Revitalisation Programme for the Central Area of Porto Alegre”.

Sophie Naudeau, Acting Director and Operations Manager of the World Bank for Brazil, expressed solidarity with the people of Rio Grande do Sul and emphasized the institution’s experience in crisis management and reconstruction following natural disasters.

In addition to financial support, World Bank teams are on the ground providing technical assistance in damage assessment, resource prioritization, and funds deployment. They are working closely with government authorities to prevent future disasters and ensure a rapid recovery for the state.

The World Bank is also in discussions with federal, state, and municipal governments, as well as the Regional Development Bank of the Far South, to make additional resources available for rebuilding efforts. This includes developing urban resilience and flood mitigation structures as part of a comprehensive “Marshall Plan” for the state’s recovery.