In Brazil, a severe storm has resulted in the deaths of at least 30 people, with the casualties reported mainly in the cities of Juiz de Fora and Uba. Emergency services confirmed that rescue teams have been dispatched to search for missing individuals as the rain has triggered significant flooding and landslides. The government of the state has declared a state of emergency in Juiz de Fora to expedite relief efforts.

The rain, part of Brazil's summer rainy season which typically runs from December to March, has been particularly intense this year, with local officials describing February as the wettest month on record for Juiz de Fora. To date, the precipitation levels have more than doubled the average for February, indicating an alarming trend that has affected the region’s infrastructure and safety.

Additionally, Brazil's meteorological institute has issued warnings for heavy rain in 14 states, including the entire regions of Minas Gerais and Rio de Janeiro. This widespread concern underlines the continued risk of severe weather events as the rainy season progresses, putting further pressure on recovery and relief operations already underway following the tragic loss of life.