Pretoria - President Jacob Zuma has sent Brazil his condolences and solidarity following the recent floods that engulfed some parts of that country this week.
At least 350 people were killed as torrents of water and mud swept through the several mountain towns near Rio de Janeiro on Wednesday, burying many families as they slept.
The heavy rains also killed 13 people in Sao Paulo state on Tuesday.
Expressing his condolences, Zuma said: "It is with great sadness and profound sorrow that we have learnt of the widespread devastation caused by heavy floods."
"The people of South Africa share the pain and loss of the loved ones, their homes and property and our thoughts and prayers go to the affected families," Zuma said in a statement.
The total official number of people killed in the floods is not clear, but media reports from that country indicate that it might have climbed to 500.
Television images showed many houses buried in mud as desperate residents and rescue workers searched for survivors.
Several areas still do not have electricity, which makes it harder for firemen to carry out the rescue work at night. Water and telephone services have not been re-established either.
Zuma wished the rescue and recovery teams, who have also suffered losses while deployed in these areas, every success in their efforts.
Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff on Thursday promised that the government will take "firm" measures to help rebuild towns devastated by the recent storms.
On Wednesday, the President released 780 million reais (467 million U.S. dollars) for disaster relief efforts in the storm-hit areas, including Rio de Janeiro state and neighbouring Sao Paulo and Minas Gerais.
The Health Ministry announced that it will send seven tons of medicine and medical supplies to the region.
