At least 117 people have been killed from mudslides and flooding in the city of Petrópolis near Rio de Janiero in Brazil.
Pope Francis has sent a telegram to the Bishop of Petrópolis Gregório Paixão Neto, signed by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin.
He writes that the Pope conveys his condolences to the families of the victims, and shares in the pain of the bereaved. He also wishes serenity and consolation of Christian hope for all those affected by the catastrophe.
Since December, heavy rains have led to deadly floods and landslides across Brazil.
In Petrópolis, over 700 people had to leave their homes and are currently taking shelter in schools and makeshift shelters. Authorities say more than 100 people remain missing.
JM
