May 04, Kathmandu- The death toll due to heavy rainfall in Brazil's southern state of Rio Grande do Sul has reached 39, and about 70 people are still missing.

According to the agency, the heavy rainfall, which is one of the worst climate tragedies, has so far affected 235 municipalities, including the state capital of Porto Alegre.

It has been raining continuously since Monday in the state. The rain has raised river levels, destroyed bridges and put the city of Porto Alegre, with a population of more than 1.4 million, on alert.

Heavy rains have also spread to the neighboring state of Santa Catarina. One person has died in floods and landslides there. Acknowledging the disaster, the Brazilian government has sent equipment and financial aid to Rio Grande do Sul.

According to the agency, more than 24,000 people have been displaced by the disaster. Governor Eduardo Leite said, "This is a difficult day and we ask people to leave their homes. Our goal is to save lives. Our priority is to rescue people.