On February 21, the regions of Rio, Serrana, and Baixada experienced intense rainfall, with Nova Iguaçu recording a significant 94 mm of rain in just one hour. The sudden downpour raised concerns about flooding and impacts on local infrastructure. In a related incident, two cyclists were tragically killed in Rio Grande do Sul when they were hit by a vehicle, whose driver fled the scene but was later apprehended. This incident has sparked discussions about road safety and the protection of cyclists in the region.

Additionally, the article highlights a controversial legal ruling where a judge mistakenly confused a deformation during a rape case involving a 12-year-old girl, leading to public outcry and debates over the judiciary's sensitivity towards such matters. This has raised questions about how cases involving minors and sensitive topics are handled in Brazilian courts, focusing on the need for better training for legal professionals.

Other notable news includes Brazil and India signing a significant agreement concerning critical minerals and rare earth elements, which indicates an effort to strengthen economic ties between the two nations amid global supply chain concerns. Furthermore, Iranian President's recent statement asserting that Iran will not 'bow its head' adds to the complexities of international relations surrounding Iran. Finally, a report outlined the presence of 128 US military bases across 51 countries, showcasing the extensive global military footprint of the United States, which continues to be a topic of international debate and analysis.