Recife, February 3, 2004 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - Governor Jarbas Vasconcelos decreed a state of emergency in the entire territory of Pernambuco, because of the rains. The damage that has already been calculated, corresponding to the destruction of dams, overflowing of reservoirs, and the flooding of houses, fields, highways, and streets, exceeds R$ 32 million.

The move was made to expedite the liberation of federal funds, meant to assist 29 municipalities affected by the rains, which have so far left 22 dead and over 11 thousand homeless.

The governor communicated his decision by fax to President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, together with a request for urgent provisions. (DAS)