Severe rains in the Zona da Mata region of Minas Gerais, Brazil, have led to landslides that caused significant destruction and multiple casualties in the cities of Juiz de Fora and Ubá.
The Zona da Mata region in Minas Gerais, Brazil, is facing one of its worst tragedies due to heavy rainfall, resulting in landslides that have devastated homes and claimed numerous lives. As of now, the death toll has reached 30, with at least 22 fatalities confirmed in Juiz de Fora alone. Authorities are currently searching for 39 individuals who remain missing following the severe weather. The rescue operations have been ongoing for almost 24 hours, reflecting the urgency of the situation as community members continue to be affected by these disasters.
In Juiz de Fora, the impact of the floods and landslides has left more than 3,000 people displaced. Schools in the region have suspended classes and are providing shelter to these families, indicating a widespread community response to the crisis. With approximately 130,000 residents living in areas at high risk for flooding and landslides, the region is noted as one of the most vulnerable in Brazil, as reported by Cemaden. The neighborhood of Paineiras has been highlighted as one of the most critical areas, where search efforts for missing persons are concentrated.
In addition to the devastation in Juiz de Fora, the cities of Ubá and Matias Barbosa have also declared a state of public calamity. This emphasizes the seriousness of the situation as local governments scramble to provide aid and support to affected communities. The extreme weather events underscore the increasing vulnerabilities of urban areas in Brazil to natural disasters, calling for more robust infrastructure and disaster preparedness in the future.
