At least ten people have been killed and dozens are missing after flooding in southern Brazil. President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has pledged federal help in response to an appeal from the state governor. He blames the disaster on climate change and is due to visit the worst-hit area.

State of Rio Grande do Sul

Extreme weather events are occurring more frequently amid rising sea-levels and increasing temperatures.

Climate Crisis

Heavy rains in southern Brazil have resulted in a devastating loss of life and extensive damage, causing at least ten fatalities and leaving dozens of people missing. The flooding, attributed to a series of torrential rains in Rio Grande do Sul state, has led to flash floods and landslides that have swept away roads and bridges, culminating in a state of emergency. In one dramatic incident captured on camera, a bridge was washed away while the mayor of Santa Teresa was recording a public advisory.

The natural disaster has forced at least 3,000 residents to abandon their homes, affecting more than 75 towns and cities across the state. Many of these displaced individuals have sought refuge in shelters. One resident expressed their reluctance to leave their home but acknowledged the peril the severe weather posed. Rescue efforts have been complicated by the conditions, with helicopters required to winch stranded individuals to safety due to the inability to land in some areas.

In response to the disaster, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who has attributed the flooding to climate change, has pledged federal support. This comes after an appeal from the state governor for national assistance. The Brazilian army has been deployed to aid in the response efforts, highlighting the gravity of the situation which has been described as potentially the most significant climate disaster in the state's history. President Silva's commitment underscores the urgent need for intervention and relief for those impacted by the floods.



Heavy rains kill at least ten in Brazil's south

ready for battle against the forces of nature. The army has been deployed in southern Brazil to help respond to flooding so devastating, the government has warned it could become a historic disaster. Storms have caused extensive damage in Rio Grande do Sul state, with torrential rains triggering flash floods and landslides, destroying roads and washing away bridges. One was caught on camera while the mayor of Santa Teresa was filming a public advisory. Brazilian authorities say at least 3,000 people have been forced from their homes in more than 75 towns and cities. Many more have moved to shelters. I wanted to stay in my house, I didn't want to leave, but with this weather I can't risk staying. The flooding has been so severe in some areas, helicopters searching for those stranded have had to winch people to safety after being unable to land. With more heavy rain predicted to fall, Brazil's president, seen here at a May Day rally, has promised the government's full support in response to the state governor's appeal for federal help. A state of emergency has been declared and there are fears the flooding could become the biggest climate disaster in the state's history. Cara Legge, Al Jazeera.

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