FLOOD DISASTER IN BRAZIL KILLS 127 AND AFFECTS 2 MILLION

Sat 11 May 2024:

Heavy rains in Brazil have triggered floods, resulting in a rise in casualties to 127, with 141 individuals reported missing, according to authorities on Saturday.

The southern state of Rio Grande do Sul has been grappling with intense rainfall since last week, leading to escalating loss of life and property.

The state’s Civil Defense reported that 756 injured persons have been hospitalized, and search and rescue operations continue tirelessly.

Nearly 2 million people have been adversely affected by the floods, with 71,409 seeking temporary shelter in schools, sports halls, and churches.

Waldez Goe, the Regional Development Minister, emphasized the “extremely worrying” situation, highlighting the potential exacerbation with further rainfall.

Relief efforts, backed by the military and police, have resulted in the rescue of 70,863 people and 9,984 animals from disaster areas.

In response to the crisis, President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva’s government has announced a $9.8 billion aid package for the reconstruction of Rio Grande do Sul.

Governor Eduardo Leite declared a “state of disaster” for 180 days, acknowledging the severity of the situation and the challenges in reaching all affected areas.

“We are going through an extremely exceptional situation. This is not just a critical event; it is the most devastating event in the history of the state,” he said.

SOURCE: INDEPENDENT PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES

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