Brazilian Family's Resilience: Living Under Bridge with 44 Animals After Flood

In Porto Alegre, Brazil, the Milton do Nascimento family faces an extraordinary living situation four months after devastating floods ravaged their home. The family, along with their 44 animals, has taken refuge under a highway bridge, showcasing remarkable resilience in the face of adversity.

Porto Alegre, the capital of Rio Grande do Sul state, experienced unprecedented flooding in May 2024, resulting in over 180 fatalities and displacing half a million residents. This natural disaster has had a profound impact on the city, which is situated at the confluence of five rivers and known as Guaíba Lake.

The Nascimento family's predicament is particularly complex due to their large number of animals, including pigs, goats, boars, horses, and dogs. Milton, 58, explained their situation:

"If it weren't for the animals, I'd be living somewhere else. But we have to look after them. My belongings are stored away safely, but not the animals."

The family's makeshift home under the bridge is located just 300 meters from their destroyed house. Despite the availability of shelters, they refuse to leave, fearing potential looting of their property. This decision highlights the challenges faced by disaster victims in balancing safety with protecting their assets.

The Nascimentos have creatively adapted to their circumstances, constructing a living space that includes basic amenities. They've connected to the local electricity network and use various household items to create a semblance of normalcy. However, they face significant challenges, particularly regarding hygiene and safety.

Gabriela, Milton's wife, maintains a positive outlook despite their difficulties:

"After going through what we went through in the flood, this is nothing. Now we're in luxury. I have everything I need."

This resilience is remarkable, considering Porto Alegre's status as one of Latin America's wealthiest cities with a diverse economy. The contrast between the city's overall prosperity and the Nascimento family's current situation is stark.

Municipal official Lucas Vasconcellos stated that adequate shelter has been offered to the family, but they remain resistant to relocation. This situation underscores the complex challenges faced by local authorities in addressing the needs of disaster-affected residents, especially those with unique circumstances like the Nascimentos.

Porto Alegre, founded in 1772 by Portuguese immigrants, has a rich history of overcoming challenges. The city is known for its participatory budgeting system, allowing citizens to have a say in municipal spending. This democratic approach to governance could potentially play a role in addressing the long-term housing needs of flood-affected residents like the Nascimento family.

As Porto Alegre continues to recover from the May 2024 floods, the Nascimento family's story serves as a poignant reminder of the diverse and complex needs of disaster survivors. Their situation calls for innovative solutions that address not only housing but also the care and accommodation of animals in post-disaster scenarios.