Floods and landslides in Brasil

A ShelterBox Response Team (SRT) is en route to Brazil to assess the need for emergency shelter following devastating floods and landslides.

Heavy rain in the South American country caused a dam in the town of Campo de Goytacazes in the southeastern state of Rio de Janeiro to burst and flood the area, forcing thousands of families from their homes. On 10 January, a landslide struck the same area that collapsed several houses, killing at least 13 and leaving another 11 listed as missing.

SRT Volunteer David Hatcher (UK) will assess the need for emergency shelter and lifesaving supplies in the eastern states of Rio de Janeiro and Minas Gerais, the alleged worst affected areas. Jose Luiz Texeira Machado, one of ShelterBox Brazil’s Board Directors, will assist David with the assessment and act as translator.

The rains are fairly commonplace at this time of year in South America's monsoon season but this year's rains have been particularly heavy and persistent, making more than 3,000 families homeless.

ShelterBox has prepositioned stock in Brazil that will allow for immediate response to the disaster if needed.