May 12, 2024,05:07pm EDT
Over the weekend, devastating floods swept through several countries, leaving a trail of destruction and claiming the lives of hundreds. In Afghanistan’s Baghlan Province alone, at least 315 people lost their lives, with over 1,600 others injured as flash floods wreaked havoc. Among the casualties were 51 children, according to UNICEF, as heavy rains demolished thousands of houses across several provinces.
Meanwhile, in Indonesia, a combination of torrential rain, volcanic activity from Mount Merapi, and mudslides led to severe flooding in Sumatra, resulting in 37 fatalities and numerous individuals reported missing.
In Brazil’s Rio Grande do Sul state, the death toll climbed to 143 as relentless floods persisted, displacing over half a million people across numerous municipalities. Currently, more than 81,000 residents are seeking refuge in shelters as the region grapples with the aftermath of the calamity.
Residents of Lima Kaum search through the rubble of the destroyed village in Indonesia.ANADOLU VIA GETTY IMAGES
Rescuers search the flooded streets of Porto Alegre in Brazil.GETTY IMAGES
Cars are abandoned on flooded city streets in Sao Leopoldo, Brazil.COPYRIGHT 2024 THE ASSOCIATED PRESS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Children walk near destroyed homes in Baghlan Province, Afghanistan.COPYRIGHT 2024 THE ASSOCIATED PRESS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Floodwaters rise in a village in Baghlan Province.COPYRIGHT 2024 THE ASSOCIATED PRESS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Torrential rains triggered one of the most destructive floods on April 29, affecting South America, particularly southern Brazil and the border areas with Uruguay. The deluge submerged hundreds of towns and cities, including Porto Alegre, the capital of Rio Grande do Sul. As the nation grapples with the aftermath, the death toll steadily climbs, while relief efforts face challenges in distributing aid and restoring flooded neighborhoods.
The situation worsened on May 2 when the 14 de Julho hydroelectric dam collapsed on the Taquari River, compounding the flooding crisis and plunging thousands into darkness as power outages spread across the region.
Beira Rio Stadium in Porto Alegre is partially flooded after a storm.COPYRIGHT 2024 THE ASSOCIATED PRESS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
