Juiz de Fora experiences its rainiest February ever, recording over 579mm of rainfall within the first 24 days, leading to severe flooding and fatalities.
Juiz de Fora has set a record for precipitation in February with 579.3 millimeters recorded in just the first 24 days of the month, according to data from the National Institute of Meteorology (Inmet). This surpasses the previous record of 456.1 millimeters which was set in 1988. The city's rain gauge, located at the Federal University of Juiz de Fora, has provided this alarming data that highlights an extreme weather pattern impacting the region.
On Monday, February 23, the heavy rainfall triggered tragic events, including the death of 16 individuals and the displacement of over 440 residents due to flooding. The Paraibuna River overflowed, leading to the closure of key infrastructure like the Mergulhão and causing landslides in various areas of Juiz de Fora, indicating significant damage to both property and public safety.
Comparative historical data shows that the rainfall this February is 27% above the historical average, raising concerns about future weather patterns and their potential impacts on the city. The phenomenon may reflect broader climatic trends affecting Brazil, warranting further attention from meteorologists and local authorities to address emergency preparedness and infrastructure resilience in the face of such extreme weather events.
