Brazil Flood-Hit Villages Need at Least $1.2 Billion
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Rebuilding from floods and mudslides in Brazil that killed 647 people will cost at least 2 billion reais ($1.2 billion), according to estimates by the three hardest-hit areas in Rio de Janeiro state.
Petropolis, Teresopolis and Nova Friburgo, cities in the mountainous area about 65 kilometers (40 miles) north of Rio, will need to rebuild roads, bridges, homes and businesses after the heaviest rain in 44 years sent earth and rocks rolling down hillside communities, and flash floods swept away entire neighborhoods. Nova Friburgo, where at least 294 people have died, will need at least 1 billion reais, said David Massena, a spokesman for the city.