Flooding caused by a cyclone in southern Brazil has resulted in the deaths of at least 31 people and has left 1,600 homeless. The storm, which began on Monday night, has affected over 60 cities in the region. Rio Grande do Sul Governor Eduardo Leite stated that this is the highest death toll from a climate event in the state's history. Videos posted online showed families stranded on the roofs of their homes, appealing for help as rivers overflowed.
The storm has caused significant damage, with entire cities being compromised and buildings swept away down to ground level. In the city of Mucum, rescuers discovered 15 bodies in a single house. Residents have been advised to gather supplies to last them the next 72 hours, indicating the potential length of time before they can access assistance. Some victims died from electrical shock or were trapped in vehicles.
Search and rescue efforts have been focused on the Taquari Valley, where the majority of the damage occurred, but have expanded to other areas. More heavy rains are expected in the region, with three flooding alerts still in place. This is not the first time Rio Grande do Sul has experienced severe weather events, as another cyclone in June resulted in 16 deaths and caused destruction in 40 cities. The state is bracing for further flooding in the future, with residents expressing concerns about the sustainability of living in the affected areas.