Overview

• Climate change and El Niño have made historic floods in southern Brazil twice as likely, according to scientists.
• The floods, which occurred in April and May, resulted in nearly 172 deaths and displaced around 600,000 people.
• Deforestation, poor infrastructure, and rapid urbanization exacerbated the impact of the flooding.
• Researchers warn that such extreme weather events will become more frequent and intense if global warming continues.
• Improved flood defenses and restoration of natural ecosystems are recommended to mitigate future disasters.