At Least 23 Dead as Heavy Rains Trigger Floods and Landslides in Southeastern Brazil

Rio de Janeiro. At least 23 people have died in floods and landslides caused by incessant rainfall in the state of Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil. The municipality of Juiz de Fora suffered the most damage, where 18 deaths have been confirmed in that city alone.

Dozens of rescue workers and disaster-trained search dogs were deployed on Tuesday to sift through debris for missing persons following torrential rains that began on Monday. More than 40 people are currently reported missing.

Local resident Lívia Rosa stated that her relatives were buried in the mud and that they were awaiting rescue, holding onto hope until the very end. According to the weather department, the possibility of continued rain in the coming days could further complicate rescue efforts.

Initial images show mud and debris piled up in various areas of Juiz de Fora due to the altered river flow. At least 440 people have been displaced in the city, located about 310 kilometers north of Rio de Janeiro.

Seven deaths have also been confirmed in the nearby city of Ubá. Juiz de Fora Mayor Margarida Salomão reported that at least 20 landslides occurred in the area and some houses collapsed.

According to the Minas Gerais Fire Department, 108 rescuers have been deployed in Juiz de Fora and 28 in Ubá. Officials stated that the search for missing persons is still ongoing. Search continues.