Brazilians struggle to keep their heads above water as near-record flooding sweeps through the Amazon.<br/> <br />Thousands in districts along the Rio Negro River have been forced to leave their homes, while officials declared a state of emergency in the affected area.<br/> <br />And it could get worse before it gets better.<br/> <br />Weather forecasts predict that water levels will likely rise beyond the record set in 2009 within the month.<br/> <br />(SOUNDBITE) (Portuguese) RESEARCHER OF THE NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF AMAZONAS' RESEARCH, JOCHEN SHONGART, SAYING:<br/> <br />"This year's flood will surpass the volume of the 2009 flood. It will be the largest flood ever registered. At least that is what we can conclude from our database."<br/> <br />The news is unwelcome to residents doing their best to ward off water and pests.<br/> <br />This woman says she's seen homes completely flooded and full of snakes and rats.<br/> <br />Climate analysts blame the record floods on the La Nina weather effect and warming temperatures across the globe.<br/> <br />Jessica Gray, Reuters
