At least 22 people have died following devastating heavy rains that triggered flooding and landslides in the southeastern Brazilian state of Minas Gerais, authorities confirmed on Tuesday.
The state fire department reported 16 deaths in the city of Juiz de Fora and an additional six deaths in Ubá, located approximately 110 km away.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva expressed condolences in a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), stating that the government’s priority was to deliver humanitarian assistance, restore essential services, support displaced residents, and accelerate reconstruction efforts.
Local authorities reported that about 440 people have been displaced in Juiz de Fora after torrential rainfall caused severe flooding and slope collapses.
Municipal officials also announced the suspension of classes in public schools as emergency response teams were deployed to search for missing persons and assist affected communities.
Media outlet G1 reported that as many as 45 people were missing in the city, including children, although the figure has not been officially confirmed by authorities.
The Brazilian government has declared a state of public calamity in Juiz de Fora, a designation that allows for faster mobilisation of emergency resources and humanitarian aid.
Much of southeastern Brazil is currently experiencing the peak of its rainy season, which typically runs from December to March and is characterised by intense downpours, thunderstorms, flooding, and landslides.
Authorities noted that this February has recorded unprecedented rainfall in Juiz de Fora’s history, with precipitation levels already more than twice the monthly average.
Mayor Margarida Salomão described the situation as “critical” in a statement released on social media.
Meanwhile, the Brazilian National Institute of Meteorology issued heavy rainfall alerts covering parts of 14 states, including the entirety of Minas Gerais and Rio de Janeiro, warning residents to remain vigilant as emergency operations continue.
About the Author
