Tragedy struck in Brazil's deep south as a hot-air balloon carrying over 20 people caught fire and crashed, resulting in the death of at least eight individuals.

Disturbing footage shared on social media captured the moment the colorful balloon descended to the ground, engulfed in flames, in the state of Santa Catarina. Some passengers were seen falling from the burning balloon as it plummeted, leaving witnesses in shock.

The crash occurred in a picturesque region filled with canyons, located 170 miles from Florianópolis, known as the 'Brazilian Cappadocia' due to its popularity for hot-air balloon rides similar to those in Turkey.

Santa Catarina's governor, Jorginho Mello, expressed deep sorrow over the incident near Praia Grande, confirming that there were 21 people onboard, with eight fatalities and 13 survivors. However, other sources mentioned that the balloon carried 22 passengers.

Reports from a local newspaper, Jornal Razão, indicated that the tragedy unfolded around 7 am local time when approximately 30 balloons were in the air over Praia Grande, also known as the 'Canyon Capital' of the state.

An eyewitness shared that when the balloon caught fire, passengers desperately threw themselves out in an attempt to escape the flames, describing the scene as chaotic and distressing.

The pilot, who survived the crash, informed authorities that the fire originated from a reserve torch inside the balloon's basket. He tried to land quickly after noticing the fire, instructing passengers to jump out as the balloon approached the ground. Some managed to escape with injuries, while others were not able to exit in time.

The crash site was described as a scene of devastation by reporters from Jornal Razão, highlighting the tragic outcome of the hot-air balloon accident.