The fatalities in the Brazil floods have risen to 78, with several individuals still reported missing.
Another 175 individuals are believed to be harmed, and there are at least 105 missing persons. The floods have affected 844,673 people in 341 cities, causing 115,844 people to be displaced from their homes.
CNN spoke to some local residents and evacuees who witnessed dead corpses in the water, likely not yet included in the death count.
Colonel José Carlos Sallet, subcommander of Rio Grande do Sul Military Firefighters, informed CNN on Sunday that around 1,000 firefighters are involved in the rescue operations.
"When the rain subsides, they've been carrying out brief operations to save as many lives as possible," Sallet said. "Yesterday (Saturday), we were able to increase our efforts and save more people."
Photos depict the muddy brown waters reaching roof heights in certain areas, with rescue teams utilizing inflatable rafts to transport people and pets aboard.
Rio Grande do Sul has been experiencing an increase in extreme weather occurrences in recent times, with at least 54 deaths in the region in September due to a sub-tropical cyclone.
The ongoing climate crisis, predominantly caused by humans using fossil fuels, is amplifying severe weather worldwide, leading to more intense and frequent events.
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The floods in Brazil have not only impacted the local population but have also reached the Americas, raising concerns across the world. The Brazilian disaster has resulted in international aid and relief efforts being mobilized.
Source: edition.cnn.com
