Death toll from rains in southern Brazil rises to 57

The southern region of Brazil has been severely affected by historic flooding, with at least 57 people killed, 74 injured, and 67 missing. The state of Rio Grande do Sul is the worst-hit area, with over 265 municipalities experiencing storm damage since Monday. Heavy rainfall, exacerbated by global warming and El Niño weather patterns, has caused unprecedented flooding, with water levels reaching their highest in nearly 150 years in some cities. The Brazilian government has responded to the disaster, with President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva visiting the affected region on Thursday. Heavy rains are expected to continue until Sunday, and authorities are scrambling to evacuate neighborhoods submerged in floodwaters.