A recent survey conducted by the Geological Service of Brazil has uncovered alarming statistics revealing that almost 5 million Brazilians are living in areas deemed at risk. This extensive research, which began in 2012, has mapped 1,800 municipalities across the country, with over half reporting at least one risk area. In total, around 1.7 million households are situated in these perilous zones, leaving a substantial population vulnerable to potential disasters such as landslides and floods.

The survey provides updated data indicating that out of 17,728 areas mapped, over 5,500 are classified as having a very high risk, while approximately 12,000 fall into the high-risk category. The states most severely impacted include Minas Gerais, Santa Catarina, and Rio Grande do Sul. These findings highlight the urgent need for robust disaster management and urban planning strategies to safeguard communities most at risk.

As cities like Juiz de Fora exemplify, the combination of geography and poor infrastructure often places residents in precarious situations, leading to heightened exposure to natural disasters. The ongoing research stresses the importance of assessing and addressing these vulnerabilities, emphasizing that proactive measures must be taken to protect the lives of millions of Brazilians who are currently living under the threat of catastrophic events.