South American Division

ADRA Responds to Devastation Caused by Hailstorm in Caxambu do Sul

Volunteers have been working to minimize the suffering of people affected in the Santa Catarina town

August 30, 2023

Brazil

Paulo Ribeiro

Volunteers put tarp on a house with a roof damaged by hail (Photo: Reproduction)

In the early hours of Saturday, August 12, 2023, a severe hailstorm hit Caxambu do Sul, Santa Catarina, Brazil, affecting around 700 families, according to the municipal administration's records through August 14. The storm, which lasted minutes, devastated the roofs of homes and damaged cars and residents' belongings.

With neighboring municipalities also affected, the City Council declared a state of emergency. The greatest current need is for 4- and 6-millimeter roof tiles, a scarce resource given the extent of the damage.

In immediate response to the disaster, the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) conducted a needs assessment at the site. During a recent meeting with community representatives, ADRA mobilized resources to buy 300 meters of tarpaulin.

ADRA’s volunteers helped cover the affected houses to minimize further damage. The next phase of the response involves providing roof tiles and resources to repair the roofs, glass, and furniture that were damaged by the water.

One of the families helped by the Adventist agency is that of Fábio Junior and Camile Correa. During the storm, they had to take shelter under a table with their son, a three-month-old baby. Their home didn’t have a ceiling, and the roof was severely damaged by the hail. "Those of us who are more humble face an even more difficult situation on days like these; for half the month, we lack money. Any help would be appreciated," says Fábio.

Coordination of Response and Support

ADRA has been coordinating efforts with other organizations, including immediate contact with Civil Defense. A meeting with volunteers and representatives of the community and the Caxambu do Sul Adventist Church was held on Sunday to align future response actions.

How to Help: Pix for Donations

To meet emergency needs and help the affected families, a Pix (electronic payment platform) has been made available for donations. The details for contributions are:

PIX key: CNPJ 17578142000800

Owner: ADRA SUL SC