In May 2024, in the wake of the devastating floods in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, Help.NGO and Amazon Web Services (AWS) were at the forefront of providing critical support and relief to local responders and affected communities.
Thanks to our previous response operations in Brazil, such as the response to the 2022 landslides in Petrópolis, we drew on established contacts with local authorities and rapidly deployed cloud computing, unmanned aerial systems (UAS), and mobile connectivity. The situation in Rio Grande do Sul was dire, with 173 people dead, 38 missing, and over 615,000 displaced. The flooding affected 93% of the region's municipalities, disrupting transportation infrastructure and causing widespread blackouts.
A swift and coordinated response
Our subject matter experts (SMEs) deployed an initial assessment team to visit field sites and coordinate with local authorities. This team, comprising a coordinator, experienced UAS operators, logistics specialists, and a communication officer, utilized several drones to conduct rapid response mapping assessments around Rio Grande do Sul. The team used WebODM, an open-source platform for processing UAS data hosted on the AWS cloud, to generate detailed maps and models of the affected areas.
At the request of local authorities, UAS were also deployed to monitor water levels in affected areas, providing critical support for search and rescue operations. We supported local authorities in conducting search and rescue operations for victims who chose to remain in their homes or became trapped during the flooding. The use of thermal cameras also aided in locating stranded individuals more quickly, allowing for quicker assistance by local authorities.
The role of AWS in the response
AWS played an indispensable role in supporting our response efforts. Our experts leveraged the power of the cloud to process and analyze UAS imagery for a variety of purposes, including needs assessment, targeted response efforts, and coordination. Particularly in areas with limited connectivity, cloud and edge technology facilitated the efficient processing of large datasets, enhancing responders’ capacity for effective and data-driven decision-making and coordination.
Key areas of AWS support:
- UAS assessment and mapping operations: We used UAS for rapid response mapping assessments around Rio Grande do Sul. The data processed on AWS cloud helped identify water entry points, assess flood extent, and prioritize response efforts.
- Water level monitoring: UAS monitored water levels, providing real-time data crucial for search and rescue operations and informing evacuation efforts.
- Data analysis: AWS technology enabled the efficient processing of UAS imagery, supporting needs assessment and targeted response efforts even in areas with limited connectivity.
Conclusion
Our response to the flooding in Rio Grande do Sul demonstrates our commitment to providing timely and effective humanitarian assistance. By leveraging advanced technologies, established partnerships, and expert personnel, we aim to mitigate the impact of this disaster and support the local responders and affected communities in their recovery efforts. The collaboration with AWS and local authorities ensures local responders have the tools they need to ensure a coordinated and strategic approach to addressing the immediate and long-term needs of the region.
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