In a tragic turn of events, heavy rains in Brazil’s southeastern Minas Gerais state have claimed 68 lives, with the toll expected to rise. The city of Juiz de Fora has borne the brunt, reporting 62 fatalities, while six more deaths occurred in Ubá.
Rescue teams are working tirelessly amidst the rubble, uncovering more bodies and aiding the injured. Local authorities confirm three people remain missing in Juiz de Fora and two in Ubá. Heavy machinery, search dogs, and dedicated personnel are combing through collapsed structures in a desperate bid to find survivors.
The downpours that struck Monday afternoon caused rivers to swell, destroying bridges and underpasses. Fallen trees blocked roads, compounding the chaos. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has expressed heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families and praised the rescuers’ bravery.
Minas Gerais Governor Romeu Zema declared a three-day mourning period. The Defense Ministry has mobilized troops for emergency operations, clearing debris, distributing food, setting up temporary shelters, and providing humanitarian aid. As recovery efforts intensify, the nation grapples with the devastating impact of nature’s fury.