Continuous heavy rains have wreaked havoc in Brazil's southern state of Rio Grande do Sul, resulting in the tragic loss of 39 lives and leaving at least 68 people missing, as reported by local authorities on Friday (May 3). The relentless downpour, which began last Monday, has inundated at least 497 cities across the state, near the border of Argentina and Uruguay.

In addition to the loss of lives and the alarming number of missing persons, the heavy rains have displaced approximately 24 thousand individuals in affected cities, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region.

State governor Eduardo Leite expressed grave concerns about the escalating situation, emphasizing the urgent need to reach inaccessible areas in the coming days. "We will be able to reach a few more areas in the next few days," Governor Leite told reporters on Friday, acknowledging the possibility of the death toll rising further as rescue and recovery efforts continue.

With the full extent of the damage still unfolding and rescue operations underway, authorities remain vigilant, bracing for the possibility of additional casualties and the need for intensified relief efforts to support affected communities in Rio Grande do Sul.