A heavy storm hit Juiz de Fora on Sunday night, leading to severe flooding that stranded residents, cars, and buses, particularly in the Democrata neighborhood near the Federal University of Juiz de Fora. In just two hours, an overwhelming 81 millimeters of rain fell, according to data from the National Center for Disaster Monitoring and Alerts (Cemaden), exacerbating an already tense situation as the city had been experiencing significant rainfall over the past week. Areas like Ipiranga and Centro also recorded high rainfall totals, with 70.2 mm and 49.2 mm, respectively.

Emergency services, including the Fire Department, responded to numerous incidents of inundated roads and isolated individuals, with specific rescues reported in various neighborhoods, including Vale do Ipê and others near the university. The torrential rain led to incidents of landslides and fallen walls, highlighting the precarious conditions in several areas of the city. Residents' daily lives were disrupted, with transport services severely affected due to road blockages and the risk of further geological instability.

Looking ahead, the forecast suggests that additional storms could occur throughout the week, as warned by the National Institute of Meteorology (Inmet). With the ongoing risk of more heavy rainfall, local authorities are urged to prepare for potential evacuations and further rescue operations, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to ensure the safety of affected communities. This situation underscores the increasing vulnerability of Juiz de Fora to extreme weather events, a concern that resonates with broader discussions about climate change and urban resilience in Brazil.