Rescue workers continue to look for victims, reconnect isolated communities and clear roads, some of which remain blocked, trapping a countless number of tourists travelling for Brazil’s Carnival celebrations.

The Sao Paulo state government confirmed 19 deaths and 566 dislodged or homeless persons after rains of more than 600mm (23.62 inches) pounded the coast of Brazil’s richest state.

Weather forecasts show heavy rains will continue in Sao Paulo’s coastal area, challenging rescue workers and raising the prospect of a higher death toll.

The federal government determined the mobilisation of several ministries to assist victims, restore infrastructure and start reconstruction work. Sao Paulo state declared a 180-day state of calamity for six cities after what experts described as an unprecedented, extreme weather event.

Operations at the port of Santos, Latin America’s largest, were interrupted amid gusts of wind exceeding 55kmph (34.18mph) and waves over one metre-high on Saturday, according to a local news outlet.

President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said on his social media account he will visit the main affected areas today.