Severe floods in southeastern Brazil have killed at least 25 people and left 43 others missing in the state of Minas Gerais, officials said Tuesday. The torrential rains began Monday in the cities of Juiz de Fora and Uba, about 310 kilometers north of Rio de Janeiro, forcing about 440 residents to evacuate their homes.
Meteorologists warned that more rain is expected in the region in the coming days. Officials have cautioned residents to stay away from areas prone to mudslides as rescue operations continue in the flood-affected region.
The Flooding
Severe flooding swept through Minas Gerais beginning Monday night, prompting intensive rescue efforts across the region. Video footage from the state fire department showed inundated streets in Juiz de Fora and Uba, with a river veering off its course during the downpour.
The region’s hilly terrain makes it particularly vulnerable to mudslides. Officials have warned residents to stay away from areas prone to collapse as waters recede and saturated ground increases the risk of further damage.
The Scope of Damage
Mayor Margarida Salomão reported at least 20 landslides in Juiz de Fora alone. The city received double the amount of rain normally expected for the entire month of February in just two days.
Rescue work is complicated by the extent of the flooding. Firefighter Demetrius Bastos Goulart, 47, described the challenge: “It is a high volume (of mud) in the landslides, we have to work with a lot of precision to avoid any damage to potential victims,” he told The Associated Press.
The Government Response
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva announced on social media that security forces are working on rescue operations and providing immediate assistance to those affected.
Brazil’s meteorology institute Inmet warned that the region faces continued risk. Additional rainfall is forecast for the coming days, threatening fresh flooding and mudslides in an area that has already experienced extensive damage.