Heavy rains in Brazil's southeastern state of Minas Gerais have resulted in the deaths of at least 20 people. The downpours on Monday evening triggered widespread floods and multiple landslides, devastating communities.
The city of Juiz de Fora reported the highest death toll, with 15 fatalities, while Ubá recorded another six. Rescue operations are actively searching for dozens of individuals still missing after homes and buildings collapsed.
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva expressed his condolences and declared a "state of calamity" in Juiz de Fora, mobilizing government resources for humanitarian aid and reconstruction. Approximately 440 residents in Juiz de Fora have been displaced, with authorities providing temporary shelter.
Local officials noted this February has been the rainiest on record for Juiz de Fora, with rainfall exceeding double the monthly average. The national meteorological institute has issued heavy rain alerts for Minas Gerais and several other Brazilian states. This event occurs during Brazil's summer and peak rainy season, a period prone to extreme weather.