The heavy rains that led to flooding and landslides around the city of Recife in northeastern Brazil have resulted in at least 100 deaths, according to the latest toll released by local authorities today, as reported by "Agence France-Presse."
The government of Pernambuco state and its capital Recife also reported 14 missing persons as search operations continue in the hardest-hit areas.
More than 400 firefighters have been mobilized, especially in Jardim Monteverde, on the border between Recife and the town of Jaboatão dos Guararapes, where dozens of people were buried due to landslides.
According to the latest toll from authorities, more than 6,000 people have lost their homes in the Recife area and have been forced to seek refuge in reception centers. A state of emergency has been declared in 24 municipalities in Pernambuco.
Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro flew over the flooded areas on Monday, and the government allocated a loan of one billion reais (approximately 198 million euros) to assist those affected.
Bolsonaro faced criticism for stating that such disasters are "things that happen" following a similar tragedy that claimed 233 lives in Petrópolis near Rio de Janeiro (southeast) in February.
