Brasilia, June 2 (RHC)-- Coronavirus cases continue to surge in Latin America, now considered the epicenter of the pandemic.  The region accounts for around 40% of new daily coronavirus deaths. 

Brazil, which has the highest number of infections in Latin America and the second highest in the world after the United States, has become the fourth-highest nation in COVID-19 deaths.  Peru and Mexico saw record numbers of cases in recent days, even as Mexico moves to reopen its economy.  Chile now has over 100,000 confirmed coronavirus cases.  

Meanwhile, Central American nations are bracing for more devastation brought by Tropical Storm Amanda. At least 14 people have been killed in El Salvador as floods and torrential downpours batter the region.