In Minas Gerais, Brazil, the death toll has risen following severe storms in the Zona da Mata region, complicating rescue efforts. The rainfall has hampered operations to locate two brothers who have been missing since Monday, with personal accounts highlighting the harsh conditions faced by residents, including one who clung to a pole for three hours while awaiting rescue. Moreover, forecasts indicate further rain, straining the already challenged emergency services.

Simultaneously, the ongoing Congressional Inquiry (CPI) into the National Institute of Social Security (INSS) has approved measures to break the bank and tax secrecy of Fábio Luís Lula da Silva, the son of President Lula. This session was marked by heated exchanges between government supporters and opposition members, showcasing the political tensions surrounding the inquiry. The investigation follows concerns about financial irregularities related to government officials and family members.

In related news from Rio de Janeiro, police managed to apprehend one of the most sought-after bookies in the country, a significant achievement amidst the backdrop of increasing criminal activities. This arrest reflects the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to tackle organized crime in Brazil. Such developments highlight the intertwining issues of natural disasters, political scrutiny, and crime in the country, shaping the landscape of current events.