BRASÍLIA: The death toll from the catastrophic floods wreaking havoc in southern Brazil surged to 100 on Wednesday, as reported by the civil defense force responsible for managing disaster relief efforts.
The relentless floods, described as the worst natural disaster ever witnessed in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, have affected nearly 400 municipalities. The toll includes hundreds of injuries, 128 persons still missing, and a staggering 160,000 people displaced from their homes.
Rescue teams are currently engaged in evacuating people stranded in their residences across the state capital of Porto Alegre and surrounding areas. Authorities have issued urgent warnings advising against the return to affected regions due to the looming threat of landslides and potential health hazards.
Sabrina Ribas, a spokeswoman for the civil defense force, emphasized the risks associated with contaminated water, which can serve as a medium for disease transmission.
The National Confederation of Municipalities disclosed that approximately 100,000 homes have been either damaged or completely destroyed by the unprecedented rainfall and ensuing floods in Rio Grande do Sul. Economic losses are estimated at around 4.6 billion reais, equivalent to over $900 million.
Porto Alegre, a city with a population of 1.4 million inhabitants, and its larger metropolitan area, which hosts more than double that number, have been severely impacted by the calamity.
Of particular concern is the Guaiba River, traversing Porto Alegre, which has surged to historic levels. Officials issued warnings on Tuesday regarding the precarious situation of five dams, which are at risk of rupture amidst the ongoing crisis.
The flooding has unleashed widespread devastation, disrupting lives and livelihoods across the region.
