Vicentina declares public calamity after heavy rains and flooding

The measure was made official through Decree No. 328, signed by Mayor Cleber Dias da Silva. The document points out that several families contacted the city hall and the Municipal Department of Social Assistance looking for help because of the damage caused by the rain.

With the decision, all municipal departments and bodies were mobilized to assist families, recover affected areas and resume essential services.

Among the measures planned are the registration of residents who need help, the distribution of essential materials and items and assistance to people in vulnerable situations.

The city hall will also be able to summon employees and use vehicles, machines and equipment to carry out emergency services, such as cleaning, clearing roads, repairing streets and maintaining local roads.

The decree also highlights the damage caused to urban and rural roads. According to the city hall, the rains compromised circulation and safety conditions, in addition to affecting roads, accesses and drainage systems.

The departments of Social Assistance, Health and Infrastructure must carry out a survey of the damage and identify the affected families. The work includes recording photos and videos, in addition to collecting information on material, economic and environmental losses.

The document also authorizes the city hall to carry out emergency contracts, as long as they are justified and respect the limits set out in the legislation.

The state of public calamity will be valid for 180 days, with the possibility of extension if the situation that motivated the measure continues.

The city hall must also gather documents and information to request recognition of the public calamity from the state and federal governments.