The tropical storm brought torrential rains and helicopter searches were underway in flooded neighborhoods for another 20 people missing, the Rio Grande do Sul government said in a press release.
An aerial view shows damage and flooding caused by heavy rains after a storm in Sao Leopoldo, Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil June 17, 2023. Photo: REUTERS
One of the hardest hit places in the storm's path was the town of Caraa, with a population of more than 8,000 people.
"The situation in Caraa is extremely worrying for us. It is essential that we can quickly map the main affected areas and identify those in need of assistance," said Rio Grande do Sul state governor Eduardo Leite, who visited the area.
As of Friday evening, Maquine, a municipality on the east coast, had received about 38 centimeters of rain, authorities said.
Many residents in affected areas have taken shelter at outdoor sports facilities in their towns. Authorities have issued landslide warnings in some areas.
Leite said authorities have carried out 2,400 rescues in the past two days.
"Our primary focus at this early stage is to protect and save lives. We are rescuing those trapped, searching for those missing and supporting all families," he said.
Deadly floods in Brazil are common and have caused devastation for decades.
Mai Anh (according to Reuters)
Source
Comment (0)