The death toll from mudslides and floods in Brazil's Petropolis rose to 117 on Thursday and was expected to increase further as the region reels from the heaviest rains in almost a century.

Heavy downpours in the afternoon, when the city recorded some 6 cm (2.36 inches) of rain, caused even more soil instability and disrupted efforts to find survivors and clean up the debris. Up to 4 cm of rain is expected overnight in the region, according to meteorologists.

More than 700 people had to leave their homes and take shelter in local schools and other makeshift accommodation. Rio de Janeiro Governor Claudio Castro on Wednesday compared the damage to a war zone.

The Petropolis mayor's office declared a state of public disaster and dispatched medical teams to assist victims.

Videos shared on social media showed extensive damage and vehicles floating in the streets.

Petropolis is a popular tourist destination, located in the mountains north of Rio de Janeiro, that was once the summer residence of the Brazilian emperor. 

(With input from Reuters)