Brazil flooding kills at least 39 people
- 10 years ago
Intense rains, flash flooding, and mudslides have killed at least 39 people in Brazil.
A state of emergency has been called in parts of the country -- still reeling from heavy rains that began last week.
The National Guard and Army have been called in to assist in rescue efforts.
Mudslides have completely destroyed homes -- with some residents buried alive.
One father was able to save his daughter and another trapped girl.
(SOUNDBITE) (Portuguese) LOCAL RESIDENT RESPONSIBLE FOR SAVING TWO CHILDREN THAT WERE BURIED, LEANDRO, SAYING:
"When I heard a noise, there was no more time for anything. I was pushing against the wall but got buried as well. I managed to find a piece of wood and grab onto it so I could pull my body free. I heard my daughter asking for help and when I freed her I heard another girl crying for help. I got her out as well."
Brazil's President Dilma Rousseff says saving lives is the top priority.
(SOUNDBITE) (Portuguese)
A state of emergency has been called in parts of the country -- still reeling from heavy rains that began last week.
The National Guard and Army have been called in to assist in rescue efforts.
Mudslides have completely destroyed homes -- with some residents buried alive.
One father was able to save his daughter and another trapped girl.
(SOUNDBITE) (Portuguese) LOCAL RESIDENT RESPONSIBLE FOR SAVING TWO CHILDREN THAT WERE BURIED, LEANDRO, SAYING:
"When I heard a noise, there was no more time for anything. I was pushing against the wall but got buried as well. I managed to find a piece of wood and grab onto it so I could pull my body free. I heard my daughter asking for help and when I freed her I heard another girl crying for help. I got her out as well."
Brazil's President Dilma Rousseff says saving lives is the top priority.
(SOUNDBITE) (Portuguese)