Severe flooding in Juiz de Fora, Brazil, has resulted in the mayor, Margarida Salomão, declaring a state of public calamity early on Tuesday, February 24, following a night of significant disruption caused by torrential rain. The mayor’s announcement, which was shared via social media, highlights the extreme nature of the situation in the city, which has witnessed 20 reported building collapses mainly in the southeastern region due to the relentless storm that began on the evening of February 23 and continued into the early hours of February 24.

Rescue operations are currently underway, with firefighters, civil defense teams, and volunteers from private companies working to find and save individuals trapped in the debris. As of now, there are no confirmed reports of casualties; however, the destruction includes fallen trees and several neighborhoods being cut off by floodwaters. The mayor has emphasized that this situation is unprecedented, as Juiz de Fora is experiencing its rainiest February in history, with accumulations reaching 584 mm—double the expected amount for the month—leading to a substantial humanitarian and infrastructural crisis.

Mayor Salomão has characterized the situation as "extreme," justifying the need for extreme measures. The public calamity decree enables the city to receive emergency funding and assistance to manage the crisis more efficiently and to address the urgent needs of the affected population. This declaration is a significant step towards mobilizing resources required for recovery and rebuilding in the aftermath of such severe weather conditions, underscoring the broader implications of climate change and its impact on Brazilian cities, particularly those vulnerable to flooding.