Rains push 2 dams in Brazil to capacity, threatening 12 towns with more flooding

Rains in Brazil fill 2 dams, threaten more floods

RIO DE JANEIRO — Brazilian officials say heavy rains have filled two dams to capacity in Sao Paulo state, threatening 12 soaked cities with more flooding.

More than 100 people have been killed by mudslides and floods triggered by downpours across southeastern Brazil since Jan. 1.

Heaviest hit have been Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo states.

An official who oversees dams in Sao Paulo state told the Agencia Estado news agency Wednesday that at least 6,000 people need to be evacuated.

Helio Castro said two dams in the state can no longer hold water.

While there is no sign they are in danger of bursting, any more rain will flow into already full rivers and worsen the flooding.