The death toll from heavy rains that devastated coastal areas of Brazil’s southeastern Sao Paulo state has reached 57 people, official figures show.

Massive downpours have caused landslides and flooding in coastal towns of Brazil’s richest state since last weekend.

The city of Sao Sebastiao bore the brunt of the human toll, with 56 of the reported deaths.

The Sao Paulo state government said in a statement more rains were expected on Friday while search and rescue efforts continued with dozens still missing.

More than 4000 people were forced from their homes, it said.

Humanity at its best, this is what the world needs 🙏

Locals form a human chain to help a baby and young children to safety. This is after torrential floods in São Paulo, Brazil.

pic.twitter.com/N4g6rLPKZp

— Nigel D'Souza (@Nigel__DSouza) February 22, 2023

The local government also called on tourists not to travel to cities in the region to avoid overloading hospitals, roads and water and food supply.

It added it was conducting control measures to avoid abusive charges for food, water, fuel and other supplies on the coast.

On Thursday, a Brazilian Navy ship arrived in Sao Sebastiao to help rescue victims.

The ship will serve as an emergency field hospital and is equipped with helicopters and landing vehicles, as well as hospital beds.

Regional Development Minister Waldez Goes said on Friday President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva had ordered him to maintain dialogue with local officials and ensure services were being provided to the affected population.

The government will also work to “restore and rebuild the city”, Goes said.

-AAP