Portuguese Island of Madeira Hit by Deadly Mudslides Due to Torrential Rains

Deadly mudslides hit Portuguese island of Madeira due to torrential rains, with death toll rising to 40 and 120 injured. An unknown number of people are reportedly missing.

The Portuguese island of Madeira has been suffered loss of life and injuries from mudslides and flash floods. According to reports, the death toll has risen to 40 people and more than 120 were injured, while an unknown number of people are missing. Torrential rains lashed the island resort Saturday, literally turning some streets in the capital of Funchal into raging rivers of mud, water and debris, according to the Associated Press.

Sadly, the death toll is expected to increase, as echoed by the regional social services spokesman, Francisco Ramos. This was the worst storm to hit the island since 1993. The weather has reportedly improved Sunday, essentially making it easier for rescue workers to move around the devastated areas. The communications system has been damaged as floods ripped out phone lines. The Army is expected to mobilize rescue teams and will provide two helicopters.

Madeira is the main island in a Portuguese archipelago that bears the same name. It is located in the Atlantic Ocean off the northwest coast of Africa. It is one of the autonomous regions of Portugal and is distinguished by its low population density. The archipelago is considered by the African Union as part of the African continent. The island is a popular year-round resort and is known for its Madeira wine, flowers and embroidery artisans. It is a popular tourist destination for many British tourists. According to media reports, the British Foreign Office said Sunday some Britons were hospitalized on the island.