However, in the aftermath, things haven't yet returned to normal: they're still digging out cars, equipment, people, and animals, and they are only now starting to rebuild the infrastructure. The region's main airport should only reopen fully by the end of 2024.

Estimates say more than 200.000 cars, or 10% of the state's fleet, went underwater, a massive loss for owners and insurance companies, to the point it has impacted the whole nation's market. It's similar to the impact Hurricane Katrina had on the US economy, 

My friend's family has returned to their home, still counting the material losses and financial setbacks. But he's returned to work and the kids to school so they're grateful for that and staying positive. Recovering and cleaning of the house and goods will cost a chunk of money, but it's now a matter of time. Most people in the areas affected are in the same situation. 

I sent him some cleaning supplies. They did have a hard time dealing with insects as predicted, but not for long: it's winter in South America, and temperatures dropped as it was beginning to dry. Diseases, however, are still a problem. We've been speaking and exchanging thoughts and stories since the last article, so here are our final considerations about floods, natural disasters, and prepping in general.

This isn't the first time this has happened, and it won't be the last.

In 1941, it rained nonstop for 22 days, causing a major flood in Rio Grande do Sul. The waters reached 15,6 feet high, taking down the power and water supply in the capital and other cities. The telegraph also stopped working, hampering search and rescue communications and isolating the state. It took days for other parts of the country to become aware of the situation.