Rains in RS: bridge on federal highway is covered in water and is at risk of collapse

A bridge on BR-386, the federal highway that connects Rio Grande do Sul to Santa Catarina, was covered by water and is at risk of collapsing in the Lajeado region, in the Taquari Valley. Rio Grande do Sul is facing historic rain that has already left 13 dead and 21 missing.

The Taquari River, which passes under the bridge, surpassed the 30 meter flood mark for the first time in its history. According to the last measurement of the ruler installed by Lajeado City Hall, the flood level reached the mark of 32.9 meters at 10:30 am this Thursday (2).

According to the municipal administration, the river is expected to rise further in the coming hours and the flood could reach 35 meters. Images show a section of the bridge covered by water. See images below .

According to the Federal Highway Police, the highway is completely closed between the cities of Lajeado and Estrela, and it is not yet possible to determine the damage to the bridge. The structure can only be assessed when the water recedes.

Still on Wednesday night (1), the State Civil Defense advised residents of the municipalities of Santa Tereza, Muçum, Roca Sales, Arroio do Meio, Encantado and Lajeado to leave risk areas and seek public shelters or another place of safety. to remain during the Taquari River level rise.

“People who do not have alternative locations should seek information from their city's Civil Defense about public shelters provided by City Halls, escape routes and security points,” said the ministry in a note.

The governor of Rio Grande do Sul, Eduardo Leite, declared that the heavy rains hitting the state will characterize “the biggest disaster ever faced” by the people of Rio Grande do Sul. “We are living in a very critical moment in the state,” said Leite.

The rains are expected to continue this Thursday (2) with a warning for storms in cities already affected by flooding.