Flooding and Mudslides in Rio de Janeiro

Please read the following update from ReachGlobal missionaries serving in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Update on Rio de Janeiro—Torrential rain

April 8, 2010

We are in the midst of torrential rains here in Rio. While heavy rains are normal, this is a 60 year deal (roughly 20" over the past 3-4 days). We, the ReachGlobal missionaries, are fine and our church families have not had any loss of life. Many of you have come to know our church partners here, and so we would like to update you on their areas of the city specifically.

Rio de Janeiro — the city as a whole
Rains continued overnight. Cold and windy. Transportation around the city is a huge problem. Some areas show little or no effects and others have been closed all week. The death toll rises each day and currently stands at about 200.

Niteroi
Niteroi seems to have been hit the worst. A huge mudslide happened last night during the night with many homes destroyed. Our church has had three families lose their homes, and there is much water damage at others. The city of Niteroi is essentially shut down, most roads are closed, most homes do not have electricity, and people are just hunkered down until help comes. On top of it all, people cannot get to their jobs. Â

Campo Grande
No major damage to church members and their homes. Once again, transportation is a huge issue. We are not hearing of any major problems in this area of the city as of now.

Recreio
Once again, no major problems for church members, but there are many low-lying areas that have major flooding. As is so often the case, these areas are inhabited by the poor. Many have moved out of their homes and are waiting to get back in to clean up. There are many friends of our church members who have been affected.

Rio das Pedras
Many of you remember our times serving in Rio das Pedras (river of rocks) and the relationships we have formed there. This is a very flat and low area of the city. The flat is good concerning mudslides; the low is bad because of the water. Many homes here are under water. Pastor Sergio is coordinating the early relief efforts.

As we continue to assess the damage, ReachGlobal is committed to working with its Brazilian partners (Restore Brazil, Rio das Paz and the local churches) to help this city in need. Please pray that the Lord would use this time for Kingdom expansion as His Church goes forth in strength and compassion.

More information

• Contact LatinAmerica@efca.org  
• Return to the Brazil main page