Drone images have surfaced showing the Brazilian city of Matias Barbosa, located in the Zona da Mata region of Minas Gerais, under water following intense rain that began on Monday, the 22nd. The city, with a population of approximately 13,000, is situated just 20 kilometers from Juiz de Fora, which has reported the highest number of rain-related casualties in the area due to the severe weather conditions.

In response to the flooding crisis, Mayor Mauricio Veterinário has declared a state of public calamity. This emergency measure is intended to facilitate access to federal government resources, expedite emergency actions, and ensure the assistance needed for affected families. The video released by the city hall shows alarming scenes of streets transformed into rivers and homes submerged, highlighting the extent of the calamity. As of the time of this report, an official assessment of those affected by the heavy rain had yet to be made public.

The National Institute of Meteorology (Inmet) has issued a meteorological warning predicting high levels of rainfall expected to continue in the region, characterizing the situation as one of 'great danger,' which is projected to last until the end of the week. Fire brigades have been mobilized to provide assistance to those impacted by the flooding, emphasizing the urgency of the situation and the need for support to address the aftermath of the storm.