Floods and landslides in Brazil kill at least 20

Floods and Landslides in Brazil Kill At Least 20

At least 20 people have died in the south-eastern Brazilian state of Minas Gerais following heavy rains that caused floods and landslides. Most fatalities occurred in Juiz de Fora, where 15 deaths were reported, with an additional six in Ubá. Rescue efforts are ongoing as officials search for those missing after buildings collapsed.

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva expressed his condolences and declared a 'state of calamity' in Juiz de Fora. Over 440 residents have been displaced or left homeless, with temporary shelters set up and requests for aid made by local authorities. Minas Gerais Governor Romeu Zema called the situation a 'sad day' and offered support to affected families.

A heavy rain alert has been issued across several Brazilian states as the country deals with its peak rainy season. This disaster follows a similar event in 2024 that caused significant flooding and loss of life, underscoring the risks posed by severe weather in Brazil.