Torrential rains in coastal areas of southeastern Brazil caused flooding and landslides that left at least 36 people dead and hundreds more homeless, local authorities said on Sunday.
Rescuers are still looking for victims, reaching isolated groups of people and clearing blocked roads. There is now a carnival in Brazil, the celebrations of which have attracted crowds of tourists.
180-day state of natural disaster
The state government of Sao Paulo confirmed the deaths of 19 people. According to figures, 566 people have been displaced in this region. As reported, 600 millimeters of rain fell. The weather forecasts predict more rainfall, which is a great challenge for rescuers.
In places, such as Santos, home to Latin America’s largest port, rescue efforts were interrupted by winds of more than 55 kilometers per hour and waves more than a meter high.
The authorities announced the mobilization of ministries to help the affected restore infrastructure and rebuild. The state of Sao Paulo declared a 180-day state of emergency in six cities.
President Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva has already announced that he will visit the places affected by the disaster on Monday.
Main photo source: Reuters