In the Venda Velha neighborhood of São João de Meriti, residents came together to build makeshift barriers on Tuesday, October 24, in an effort to stop rainwater from inundating their homes again after a devastating flood. This community initiative was spurred by the recent severe storm that hit the area on Monday, October 23, leaving around 600 people homeless and resulting in the tragic death of an 85-year-old woman. The local government has declared a state of emergency in response to the flooding, with the region currently under maximum alert due to the overwhelming rainfall that exceeded 100 millimeters.

The floods have had a significant impact on the local community, prompting residents to take matters into their own hands to protect their properties. Many families in Venda Velha experienced substantial damage as a result of the torrential rain, which has prompted a sense of urgency and solidarity among neighbors to collaborate in building barriers at their doorsteps. The collective effort aims to safeguard homes against further water damage in the event of new rain, reflecting a community-driven response to the challenges posed by the extreme weather.

Local authorities are monitoring the situation closely as the area remains under a state of maximum alert. The incident highlights the vulnerability of São João de Meriti to severe weather events, and the community's proactive approach to mitigate the damage indicates a growing awareness of the need for better infrastructure and preparedness against the increasing frequency of heavy rains, which are becoming a chronic issue in many parts of Brazil. Such grassroots initiatives may also prompt local and state governments to reconsider their strategies for flood management and disaster response.