In the east of the Brazilian state of Sao Paulo, at least 26 people have died due to heavy rainfall. Authorities fear more deaths. Among the dead is a 7-year-old girl. Carnival has been canceled in a number of cities.
In the city of Sao Sebastiao, about 200 kilometers east of the city of Sao Paulo, 25 people have died. About 70 kilometers north, in Ubatuba, the girl died, says the mayor.
Several cities on the coast were hit by the storm. According to the state government, more than 600 millimeters of rain fell in a day. That would be one of the largest amounts in a short time ever recorded in Brazil.
The rain led to flooding and landslides. In images of flooded streets, in some places only the roofs of houses are still above the water. Residents try to get to higher areas with small boats.
The road from Rio de Janeiro to the port city of Santos has been blocked in several places by mudslides and landslides.
According to the mayor of Sao Sebastiao, rescuers are unable to get to several locations. “It’s a chaotic situation,” he says. Dozens of people are still missing and, he says, fifty houses collapsed due to landslides.
Carnival cancelled
Carnival festivities have been canceled in Sao Sebastiao, Ubatuba, Ilhabela and Bertioga. The carnival celebrations in the north of the state are usually well attended by wealthy tourists who want to avoid the busy street parties of big cities.
Brazilian President Lula says he will go to the affected area later today.
