Brazilian floods leave thousands homeless

The figure of missing people has risen from the 40,000 estimated on Tuesday when news of the disaster broke. The embassy said 41 people have died as a result of the disaster, while 1,500 are missing in the states of Alagoas and Pernambuco. Up to 71 municipalities or districts have been affected with several agricultural towns reportedly submerged by the floodwater.

The embassy said the floods did not affect big industrial towns that contribute significantly to the Brazilian economy. It said the effects of the disaster are more humanitarian than economic. The embassy said Brazil has unveiled $175 million for emergencies that have risen from the disaster. The funds will be used for evacuation, medical, food and other interventions.