The death toll from torrential rains in Brazil has increased to 53, with 21 individuals still unaccounted for, as authorities struggle with budget cuts that limit disaster response.
Recent torrential rains in Brazil, particularly hitting the city of Juiz de Fora, have led to a tragic increase in the number of deaths to at least 53, primarily due to landslides caused by the intense summer precipitation. Alongside the human cost, around 21 individuals remain missing as the region continues to battle the effects of the severe weather. Rescue officials are working to locate missing persons and support those displaced by the disaster.
Furthermore, an alarming report has come to light regarding budget cuts in the state of Minas Gerais, where funding allocated for dealing with natural disasters, such as these torrential rains, has been slashed by a staggering 95% over the past two years. This significant reduction raises concerns about the preparedness and resilience of local authorities to effectively respond to extreme weather events that are becoming increasingly common due to climate change.
As the region continues to face heavy rainfall, the implications of these budget cuts could become increasingly severe, potentially jeopardizing the safety of residents in high-risk areas. As authorities attempt to prevent displaced families from returning to hazardous zones, the awareness of the need for adequate disaster preparedness funding is underlined, especially in light of the growing frequency of such natural disasters in Brazil.
