Southern Brazil has been devastated by the worst flooding in 80 years, resulting in the deaths of more than 100 people and displacing hundreds of thousands. In the midst of this tragedy, a rare beacon of hope emerged when a horse named Caramelo was rescued from a rooftop by firefighters in Canoas, Porto Alegre. Weighing 349kg, the brown horse had been stuck on a narrow roof, balancing precariously. The rescue operation, broadcast live on television, involved sedating Caramelo before safely getting him off the roof.
Social media influencer Felipe Neto shared updates on Caramelo’s rescue with his millions of followers and offered to adopt the horse. Caramelo, estimated to be seven years old, is currently recovering at a veterinary hospital where he arrived dehydrated. Veterinarians involved in the rescue highlighted the challenging nature of the operation, praising Caramelo’s cooperative behavior which made the administration of sedatives easier. Agencies in Rio Grande do Sul have rescued around 10,000 animals affected by the flooding, while municipal authorities and volunteers have saved thousands more.
The situation in southern Brazil remains dire, with more storms forecasted to hit the region. Aid efforts are underway to help communities cut off from basic necessities such as drinking water, electricity, and communication services due to the flooding. Rescuers are working tirelessly to reach those trapped in their homes or reluctant to leave for fear of looting. The Guaiba river in Porto Alegre has reached historic levels, raising concerns about the potential rupture of five dams.
Authorities are prioritizing rescue operations and delivering humanitarian aid to those affected by the floods. The civil defence force in the region is working hard to provide support to communities in need and prevent further casualties. Despite the challenges posed by the ongoing natural disaster, the successful rescue of Caramelo has brought a glimmer of hope to a nation grappling with the devastating impact of the worst flooding in 80 years. The resilience of the Brazilian people and the tireless efforts of rescue teams and volunteers offer a ray of hope in the face of overwhelming adversity.
