At least 30 individuals perished following severe rainfall in the southeastern region of Minas Gerais, Brazil, as reported by local officials on Tuesday. Additionally, 39 individuals are currently unaccounted for.
The state fire department verified that the fatalities occurred in Juiz de Fora and Uba, two cities located approximately 110 kilometers apart. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva extended his sympathies in a social media post, emphasizing the importance of providing humanitarian aid, restoring essential services, assisting displaced individuals, and supporting reconstruction efforts.
In Juiz de Fora, around 440 residents have been displaced due to the flooding and landslides triggered by the heavy rain, leading to the closure of municipal schools. Specialized teams have been mobilized to address emergencies, conduct search operations for missing persons, and provide assistance. The state fire department disclosed that 134 personnel have been dispatched to Juiz de Fora and Uba.
Gabriel Vitor, a 24-year-old firefighter deployed in Juiz de Fora, remarked on the challenging circumstances, highlighting the collaborative efforts to locate all missing persons. Brazil’s government has declared a state of emergency in Juiz de Fora to expedite relief and humanitarian aid.
The rainy season in Brazil typically peaks from December to March, characterized by frequent intense rainfalls, thunderstorms, flooding, and mudslides. Residents, such as 45-year-old Jaqueline Teixeira, expressed profound sadness and hope for miraculous survivals amidst the devastation.
According to Juiz de Fora city hall, this February has been the wettest on record, with rainfall exceeding double the expected amount for the month. Mayor Margarida Salomão described the situation as critical, emphasizing the urgent need for assistance.
The National Institute of Meteorology in Brazil issued heavy rain warnings for various regions across 14 states, encompassing Minas Gerais and Rio de Janeiro, among others.