This is the moment a rescue worker leaps from a helicopter and swims through murky floodwaters to save a woman clinging to a bus stop for dear life.

The dramatic rescue took place in flood-hit Sao Pedro de Alcantara, southern Brazil, on 30th November, on the fourth day of persistent rains in Santa Catarina state.

The 42-year-old survivor was partly submerged and was only spotted after she waved frantically to the Military Fire Department helicopter.

Grim footage shows heavy rainfall and murky, fast-flowing floodwater covering the land as far as the eye can see.

The woman had apparently been stranded at the bus stop after her car was swept away by the current.

After reaching her, the rescue worker fitted her with a safety harness, winched her up to the helicopter, and dropped her off on higher land.

There, local media reported, she was given first aid.

At the time of reporting, at least nine areas across Santa Catarina remained at high risk of landslides, floods, and waterlogging.

Alerts were also in place for the states of Parana, Rio Grande do Sul, and Sao Paulo.

The recent heavy rains across southern and south-eastern Brazil have left a trail of destruction, with at least two dead and more injured.

At least 30 are reported missing following a landslide that hit a motorway in Guaratuba, Parana, on 28th November.

Officials have advised locals not to drive through flooded areas and to avoid bridges.

They have also warned residents to be vigilant against any movement of earth, particularly those who live near slopes.