Brazil is facing one of its worst flood disasters in recent history. At least 100 people have lost their lives, and rescue operations have been put on hold due to relentless heavy rain 🌧️ and the risk of lightning ⚡ and strong winds. Over 163,000 people have been forced to leave their homes, seeking shelter from the devastating floods.
The deluge began last week, triggered by unusually heavy rains that have wreaked havoc across the state of Rio Grande do Sul, which borders Uruguay and Argentina. Highways and bridges have been destroyed, cutting off communities and making rescue efforts even more challenging.
In the state capital, Porto Alegre, the Guaiba River has burst its banks, turning city streets into rivers. \"We've lost everything,\" said Adriana Freitas, a resident of the city. \"It's sad when we see the city, our house, in the middle of the water. It seems like it's over, that the world has ended.\" 😢
The state's civil defense authority reported that at least 128 people are still missing. Authorities are urging residents near the Patos Lagoon, south of Porto Alegre, to evacuate immediately as water levels continue to rise.
In Canoas, just north of Porto Alegre, army soldiers are using amphibious armored vehicles 🛥️ to rescue people from waters that have reached depths of up to three meters! The streets there are now navigable only by boat, with entire neighborhoods submerged.
This disaster highlights the urgent need to address climate change and improve infrastructure to withstand such extreme weather events. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected. Stay safe, everyone! 🙏
Reference(s):
Brazil floods: 100 lives lost, rescues interrupted by heavy rain
cgtn.com
