PORTO ALEGRE, Brazil (AP) — Authorities in southern Brazil rushed Wednesday to rescue survivors of massive flooding that has killed at least 100 people, but some residents refused to leave belongings behind while others returned to evacuated homes despite the risk of new storms.
Heavy rains and flooding in the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul since last week also have left 128 people missing, authorities said. More than 230,000 have been displaced, and much of the region has been isolated by the floodwaters.
More storms are expected in the state on Wednesday, with hail and wind gusts reaching up to 100 kilometers per hour (62 mph), according to the national meteorology institute’s morning bulletin.
Staffers of the state’s civil defense agency told The Associated Press they have been struggling to persuade residents of the city of Eldorado do Sul, one of the hardest hit by the floods, to leave their homes. It is located beside Porto Alegre, near the center of the state’s coastline. At least four people declined to evacuate.
Inside Love Island star Jess White's jet
China continues to enhance public medical services
56.4 pct of China's postgraduates hold professional degrees
China sees fluctuating decline in child respiratory cases at medical facilities
Three Maryland family members fatally shot, another wounded, suspect takes own life, police say
People injured in earthquake get treatment in Gansu
10 major criminal suspects transferred back to China from Myanmar
Sarah Hyland reveals husband Wells Adams called her Little Shop of Horrors voice 'very sexual'
People prepare for upcoming Spring Festival in Tianjin
Sarah Hyland reveals husband Wells Adams called her Little Shop of Horrors voice 'very sexual'
China offers winter comfort to people in need