The state government in São Paulo, Brazil, reported on 05 March that as many as 42 people are still missing after torrential rain caused flooding and landslides in coastal areas of the state on 03 March 2020.
Torrential rain of up to 280mm fell in just 12 hours from 02 March, affecting areas of the Baixada Santista region, in particular Guarujá, Santos and São Vicente.
The death toll has continued to rise since the rain first struck. Sao Paulo Governor João Doria, said that, as of 05 March, at least 28 deaths had been reported.
A massive search and rescue operation is in place for the 42 people still missing. The governor said a total of 1,830 people from Civil Defense, Fire Department and Military Police, were involved in the operation. Many were also involved in carrying out further evacuations and attending to displaced families.
Governor João Doria said the operation will continue for as long as necessary.
