In southern Brazil, more than 24,000 people have been forced to flee their homes due to floods and mudslides, with dozens of people losing their lives. The heavy rain that hit the region has caused devastation, with rescue workers searching through collapsed houses, bridges, and roads in search of those reported missing. Boats and airplanes have been used to assist in the search efforts, but the conditions remain challenging.
The state of Rio Grande do Sul has been hit hardest by the disaster, with nearly 70 people still missing and over 70 injured. Flooding has cut off access to major highways, and dams across the state are under strain, threatening the city of Porto Alegre with unprecedented flooding. Residents in towns like Eldorado do Sul have been forced to flee their homes, seeking refuge from the rising floodwaters.
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva visited the affected areas and promised that there would be no shortage of aid and supplies to support those impacted by the disaster. However, many communities are facing disruptions in essential services like drinking water, electricity, and communication connections. The situation remains dire, with the risk of dam collapses and ongoing search and rescue efforts to find those still missing.