At least 23 people have died and dozens are missing following severe floods in Brazil's Minas Gerais state. Hundreds have been forced to evacuate their homes as torrential rains continue to batter the region.
The heavy rainfall began Monday in the cities of Juiz de Fora and Uba, causing widespread flooding and landslides. Approximately 440 residents have been displaced, with emergency services actively searching for nearly 45 individuals who went missing.
Officials have issued warnings for residents to avoid areas prone to mudslides. The city of Juiz de Fora has reported experiencing double the average rainfall for February. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva confirmed that security forces are engaged in rescue operations and providing immediate aid to affected populations.