As São Paulo approaches Christmas 2024, residents in the eastern zone, particularly in the Vila Marieta area, are facing significant challenges due to recurrent flooding. Retired resident Deusa Marangoni describes the repeated devastation of her home, where floodwaters have caused damage to both her furniture and the structure of her house. Similarly, business owner Bruna Martiniani has experienced substantial losses, estimating around R$ 2,000 in damage to her event space's decorations due to the floods. These incidents highlight the ongoing struggles of the local community as they grapple with the impact of natural disasters.

In order to address their financial burdens, residents have sought assistance from the city government, but reports indicate a frustrating experience with bureaucratic hurdles. Both Marangoni and Martiniani have attempted to request property tax exemptions (IPTU) due to their homes being situated in flood-prone areas. However, their requests have been denied, forcing them to navigate a complex and often ineffective system in a desperate attempt to secure relief for the damages incurred. This negligence raises urgent questions about municipal support for vulnerable populations living in at-risk zones.

The lack of adequate governmental response following the floods not only affects the lives of these individuals but also highlights broader issues of urban planning and disaster management in São Paulo. With climate change exacerbating weather patterns, such flooding events are likely to become more frequent. This situation underscores the need for proactive measures, increased funding for infrastructure improvements, and the establishment of more effective response mechanisms to support residents affected by natural disasters, ensuring they are not left to struggle alone in the aftermath of such events.