The record worsens in the flood and landslide disaster that occurred on Saturday after heavy rains hit northeastern Brazil.
The statement by Pernambuco state civil defense officials said: “The number of people who lost their lives as a result of heavy rains rose to 79”.
Pernambuco Governor Paulo Camara, who did not update the number of those who disappeared, said: “We still do not have an exact number, but the number of people who lost their lives is available. “We will continue search efforts until all missing persons are found,” he said.
Government officials warned that rain will continue today and that 1,200 personnel will continue search and rescue efforts using boats and helicopters.
Luiz Estevao Aguiar, who lost 11 relatives in the landslide disaster, said in a tearful statement: “11 people from my family, including my sister and half-brother, died. It’s very difficult, I didn’t expect it at all,” he said.
Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro announced yesterday that he will visit Recife, the capital of the state of Pernambuco, today.
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