More than 24,000 people have fled their homes in southern Brazil due to floods and mudslides, with dozens reported dead. Authorities confirmed that the death toll rose to 39 on Friday as heavy rain continued to cause devastation in the region.
Rescue workers are working tirelessly to search for missing individuals among the rubble of collapsed buildings, bridges, and roads. The search efforts are being conducted with the assistance of boats and airplanes in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, where over 70 people have been injured and nearly 70 are still missing.
In addition to the human toll, the flooding has also cut off access to major highways in the region, straining dams and threatening the city of Porto Alegre with unprecedented flooding. Many communities are facing a lack of basic necessities such as drinking water, electricity, and communication services.
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva visited the area on Thursday and promised ample aid and supplies for those affected by the disaster. Meanwhile, residents in affected areas are fleeing their homes on trucks to escape the rising floodwaters.
The situation remains dire as authorities warn of the risk of dam collapses and ongoing heavy rain, which shows no signs of letting up. Despite the challenges, efforts continue to provide relief and support to those impacted by the floods and mudslides in southern Brazil.