The city of Cataguases in the Zona da Mata Mineira has been severely affected by heavy rains, leading to flooding that forced residents to abandon their homes. On Friday, 27th, the region experienced 220 millimeters of rainfall in just four hours, with a staggering 104 millimeters falling within a single hour. As the Pomba River overflowed, it reached 8.16 meters above its bed, resulting in widespread flooding of low-lying areas. Reports indicate that there have been eight rescue operations conducted for residents trapped by the floods.

The local Civil Defense authorities have noted that the flood stage for the Pomba River is marked at 5.5 meters, indicating the severity of the situation as the water level far exceeded this threshold. With various rivers in the area, including the Ribeirão Meia Pataca, also overflowing, the impact on the community has been substantial. Mayor's statements highlighted that 153 individuals have been displaced, while approximately 450 have been forced to evacuate their homes as rising waters make living conditions untenable.

This flooding crisis is part of a broader pattern of severe weather affecting the state, with reports indicating that the recent storms have resulted in at least 69 fatalities across the Zona da Mata region. Local authorities are on high alert as they continue to monitor the situation and assist those affected by the flooding, emphasizing the need for continued community support during this natural disaster.