Brazil: at least 29 dead and dozens missing after torrential rains in the southeast of the country
Torrential rains in southeastern Brazil have resulted in at least 29 fatalities and many missing, with severe landslides affecting local communities.
In southeastern Brazil, torrential rains have led to catastrophic flooding and landslides, claiming at least 29 lives, with dozens more missing. In Juiz de Fora, a city in Minas Gerais with a population of 540,000, significant damage has been reported, including the complete destruction of 12 homes due to mudslides. The situation is dire, with local authorities mobilizing emergency services to assist in rescue efforts.
Residents captured videos of buildings collapsing under the immense force of the rains, highlighting the severity of the situation. The authorities have responded by suspending classes in all municipal schools to ensure the safety of children as rescue and recovery operations continue. The local fire department is actively working in the worst-affected areas, showcasing the devastating impact of the weather on infrastructure and community safety.
The heavy rainfall has not only affected Juiz de Fora but also nearby towns, bringing the total death toll in the region to at least 29. Local officials are coordinating with state and federal agencies to gauge the full extent of the disaster and to provide aid to those displaced by the flooding. As rescue operations unfold, the community faces a long road to recovery from this tragic event.