Heavy rains in Brazil’s southern state of Rio Grande have caused the worst flooding in its 80-year history. So far 56 people have died and 67 others are missing.
At least 56 people have been killed in massive floods and landslides caused by days of heavy rain in the southern state of Brazil. Officials say another 67 people are missing in the Rio Grande do Sul.
About 25,000 residents have been forced to leave their homes since the storm started last Saturday. At least 5 lakh people are forced to live without electricity and clean water. Even more rain is expected in this region of Brazil.
A rare combination of above-average temperatures, high humidity and strong winds has created extreme weather in this region of the Latin American country. More than half of the state’s 497 towns were affected by the storm, with roads and bridges destroyed in several areas.
The storm triggered landslides and the collapse of a hydroelectric dam near the town of Bento Gonçalves, killing 30 people. Besides, a second dam in the area is also at risk of collapsing due to rising water levels, authorities said.
In the regional capital, Porto Alegre, the Guaiba River overflowed its banks and caused street flooding. Due to this, some surrounding areas have also sunk.
All flights at Porto Alegre’s international airport have been suspended ‘indefinitely’.
One resident said the damage caused by the rain and flooding was ‘heartbreaking’. “I live in this area, so I feel sorry for everyone who lives here,” Maria Luisa said. It is very sad that all this is happening.’
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva visited the region, pledging help from the central government. Besides, meteorologists have predicted more rain in the region.
Earlier last year more than 30 people were killed in a cyclone in Rio Grande do Sul.
