Heavy rains in southern Brazil have led to a devastating situation, with at least 13 people dead and 21 missing. The state of Rio Grande do Sul has been hit hard by the torrential downpours, causing widespread flooding, mudslides, and destruction.
The state government has deployed rescue helicopters to search for stranded residents, as many towns have been left isolated with no electricity or communication. Nearly 10,000 people have been forced to flee their homes, with some residents awaiting rescue on the roofs of their flooded houses.
Governor Eduardo Leite has declared a state of emergency, calling it the worst disaster in the state’s history. However, authorities are struggling to reach all affected areas due to high river levels and heavy flooding. Meteorologists are predicting more rain in the coming days, which could further complicate rescue efforts.
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has promised federal assistance to support the state government and municipalities in their response to the crisis. Last year, a similar weather event in the region resulted in 37 deaths, highlighting the vulnerability of the area to extreme weather conditions.
The national weather institute has attributed the heavy rains to the weather phenomenon El Niño, which can bring heavy rainfall to southern Brazil while causing drought in other regions. The situation remains dire as rescue efforts continue and the region braces for more rain in the days ahead.
