River levels rise again in flood-hit Brazilian state
May 14, 2024
Brasilia [Brazil], May 14: River levels are on the rise again in the flood-stricken Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul after more heavy rains on the weekend.
The Taquari and Caí rivers have burst their banks and are causing fresh flooding in the interior of the state. More than half a million people have been displaced from their homes and 147 are confirmed to have died in the floods.
Rescue workers continue to search for people who are missing. The rise in the water levels of the Taquari and Caí is particularly worrying because the two rivers flow into the Guaíba, which has already caused severe flooding in the state capital, Porto Alegre. Large parts of the city, which is home to 1.5 million people, remain under water, with the historic centre particularly badly hit. Soldiers have been patrolling flooded neighbourhoods in boats after reports of lootings.
Brazil's President, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, has delayed his planned visit to Chile to co-ordinate the government's response. US President Joe Biden on Saturday said that his government had been in touch with his Brazilian counterpart to provide assistance.
Source: Qatar Tribune
