Torrential rains and mudslides have left more than 350 dead in Brazil.  The Associated Press reports mudslides hit the mountain region north of Rio de Janeiro early Wednesday morning, wiping away homes.  Officials say more than 50 people remain missing. 

Rescue workers are digging in the mud looking for survivors but treacherous conditions are hampering rescue efforts in some areas.  The region received 10 inches of rain in less than 24 hours and more rain is forecast for the weekend.

Much of the affected area is now without drinking water and there is concern about the potential spread of water-borne diseases such as cholera and dysentery.  Enough medication to treat tens of thousands of people for one month is being airlifted to the region.

The natural disaster is the first major test for Brazil’s newly installed president Dilma Rousseff.

Reach Christine Detz here