SAO PAULO, June 18 (Xinhua) -- At least two people died and one person is missing following severe storms, flooding and landslides in the southern Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul, civil defense authorities reported Wednesday.

Heavy rainfall in recent hours caused major rivers to rise, triggering floods in areas including Canoas, a city neighboring the state capital, Porto Alegre.

Governor Eduardo Leite said that at least 51 municipalities have been affected by heavy rain and hailstorms, with 2,000 people evacuated.

The most severe impacts are concentrated near the Taquari River, where at least 17 municipalities have suspended school classes and public activities.

Civil defense teams have begun relocating displaced residents. ■