78 deceased, 105 unaccounted for following heavy rain, floods in southern Brazil

Photo : AP

The death toll from severe flooding in Brazil's southern state of Rio Grande do Sul has climbed to at least 78, with over 115,000 people displaced, according to local authorities. President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and his cabinet arrived in the affected area to coordinate rescue and reconstruction efforts.

Speaking at a press conference, President Lula emphasized that bureaucratic hurdles would not hinder recovery efforts, likening the situation to a wartime scenario. State Governor Eduardo Leite echoed this sentiment, highlighting the need for urgent post-war measures.

Volunteers have been crucial in rescue operations, utilizing boats, jet skis, and even swimming to assist stranded individuals. In Porto Alegre, Fabiano Saldanha and his friends have rescued around 50 people using jet skis, responding to desperate calls for help echoing through flooded streets.

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The situation remains dire, with 105 people reported missing on Sunday, a significant increase from the previous day. The state civil defense authority is also investigating four additional deaths potentially linked to the storms.

The widespread flooding has impacted over two-thirds of the state's cities, resulting in the destruction of infrastructure, including roads and bridges. Landslides and the partial collapse of a dam have added to the devastation, while power outages affect over 400,000 people and water shortages afflict nearly a third of the population.

Porto Alegre's Guaiba lake breached its banks, reaching record-high water levels, leading to the suspension of all flights at the city's international airport. Displaced residents recount harrowing experiences, with some rescued from rooftops as floodwaters engulfed their homes.

As the crisis unfolds, the people of Rio Grande do Sul receive support and prayers from around the world. Pope Francis, during his weekly address in Vatican City, expressed solidarity with the affected communities, offering prayers for their safety and recovery.