Natural Disaster in Brazil: Flood Victims Rise to 30, Missing in the Dozens
Heavy and unprecedented rains have struck the state of Minas Gerais in southeastern Brazil, resulting in a tragic toll that has risen to 30 dead at least, while 39 people are still missing amid ongoing search and rescue operations.
Local authorities confirmed last night, Tuesday, that the victims fell in the cities of Juiz de Fora and Ouba, which are approximately 110 kilometers apart, after heavy rains caused flash floods and widespread landslides.
* Record Rainfall and Declared Disaster
In Juiz de Fora alone, the municipality declared a state of emergency and disaster after the city recorded 584 millimeters of rain between February 22 and 24, an unprecedented rate that is four times the usual average for this time of year, making February the rainiest month in the city's history.
The rains caused:
• At least 20 landslides, mostly in the southeastern area of the city
• Widespread flooding and overflow in waterways
• Isolation of entire residential neighborhoods
• Displacement of about 440 people from their homes
• Suspension of classes throughout the city
The state fire department reported the deployment of 134 personnel in Juiz de Fora and Ouba to participate in search operations for the missing and respond to incidents.
Authorities indicated that the number of missing persons is 40 in Juiz de Fora and three in Ouba.
* Government Action and Messages of Condolence
The Brazilian government declared a state of emergency in Juiz de Fora, accelerating the pace of relief and humanitarian assistance, while civil defense teams and military fire departments continue rescue operations, identifying potential victim locations and evacuating residents from areas at risk of landslides.
For his part, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva expressed his condolences to the victims' families in a post on the "X" platform, confirming that the government's focus is on providing urgent humanitarian aid, restoring essential services, supporting the displaced, and assisting in reconstruction efforts.
* Intense Rainy Season
Wide areas of Brazil are experiencing the peak of the rainy season during the summer from December to March, where thunderstorms, floods, and mudslides recur, making this time of year one of the most dangerous, especially in mountainous and populated areas.
As the rains continue, fears remain of an increasing death toll, while search operations continue in a race against time to rescue the missing under the rubble.
