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Brazil: 36 people killed as heavy rain causes flooding and landslides in Sao Paulo state-UPDATED

20 February 2023 09:00 (UTC +04:00)

At least 36 people have been killed after heavy rain caused flooding and landslides in Brazil, authorities say, APA reports citing Sky News.

A seven-year-old girl was among the dead as rescue workers continued to look for victims and reconnect isolated communities in Sao Paulo state.

Roads remain blocked, trapping some tourists who had traveled for Brazil's carnival celebrations.

The mayor of Sao Sebastiao, Felipe Augusto, said 50 houses had collapsed in the city due to the landslides.

Sao Paulo state government said rain in the region had surpassed 600mm (23.6in) in one day, one of the highest amounts ever in Brazil in such a short period.

Weather forecasts show heavy rains will continue in Sao Paulo's coastal area, challenging rescue teams and raising the prospect of more confirmed deaths.

Sao Paulo state has declared a 180-day state of emergency for six cities after what experts described as an unprecedented, extreme weather event.

Operations at the port of Santos were interrupted on Saturday, with winds exceeding 34mph and waves more than a meter high, according to local media.

Sao Paulo Governor Tarcisio de Freitas will meet officials on Monday as they coordinate the response.

***06:20

Heavy rains in coastal areas of Brazil's southeast have caused flooding and landslides that killed at least 24 people and dislodged hundreds of others, according to media reports on Sunday citing local authorities, APA reports citing Reuters.

Rescue workers continue to look for victims, reconnect isolated communities and clear roads, some of which remain blocked, trapping a countless number of tourists traveling for Brazil's Carnival celebrations.

The Sao Paulo state government confirmed 19 deaths and 566 dislodged or homeless persons after rains of more than 600 millimeters (23.62 inches) pounded the coast of Brazil's richest state.