Tragedy struck Brazil's southernmost state of Rio Grande do Sul as relentless heavy rains led to devastating floods and landslides. Local authorities reported that at least 39 people lost their lives, with the death toll expected to rise as search efforts continue for the missing.
The region, bordering Uruguay and Argentina, has been particularly hard-hit, with Rio Grande do Sul's civil defense authority confirming that 68 individuals remain unaccounted for. The severe weather has displaced approximately 24,000 residents, forcing them to seek refuge from the rising waters and unstable ground.
More than half of the state's 497 cities have been affected by the storms, disrupting daily life and causing significant damage to infrastructure. Emergency services are working around the clock to provide assistance to those in need and to mitigate the impacts of the ongoing weather crisis.
As the community grapples with the aftermath, the focus remains on rescue operations and providing support to the displaced families. The resilient spirit of the residents shines through as they come together to rebuild and recover from this natural disaster.
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Rains in southern Brazil kill at least 39, some 70 still missing
cgtn.com
