Rescue effort continues as death toll in Brazil floods climbs to 78

The city of Porto Alegre, capital of Rio Grande do Sul state in Brazil, has been severely affected by catastrophic flooding. According to reports, at least 78 people were killed and over 70,000 displaced from their homes, with many more injured or missing. The Guaiba River, which flows through the city, reached a record high level of between 5.04-5.3 meters (16.5-17.4 feet), depending on the source, causing widespread flooding and damage.