Rain‑driven Tragedy: Hundreds Displaced, Scores Lost in Minas Gerais

The southern part of Brazil has been hit hard by a sudden downpour that turned streets into rivers. In the cities of Juiz de Fora and Uba, at least 46 people have died and more than 3, 000 families were forced to leave their homes. The flood waters reached the homes of many residents, collapsing walls and sending debris into streets. An 11‑year‑old boy lost his life when the roof of his house collapsed, a stark reminder that even children are not safe from nature’s fury. Families gathered at local churches, turning them into makeshift shelters where food and water are shared. One truck driver fled his home to avoid a collapse, but he still fears that the mud could bury him and his family. The city of Juiz de Fora, with 560, 000 residents, is covered in mud and the risk of more landslides looms large. Schools in both cities have closed, and city officials are moving around 600 families into school buildings that can serve as emergency homes.Mayor Margarida Salomão reported that the city has received twice the rainfall expected for February and that at least 20 landslides have already occurred since Monday night. President Lula has called in security forces to help with rescue operations and immediate relief. Scientists warn that extreme weather events are increasing in frequency because of human‑induced climate change. Earlier this year, a similar flood in the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul killed 185 people and caused billions of reais in damage to businesses, farms and homes. Local residents feel abandoned by public authorities. Flávio Rodrigues complained that no help was offered to build barriers or protect his home from the heavy rains. His stepson escaped a falling rock, but the damage to their bedroom remains extensive. The sense of insecurity and grief is palpable among those who have lost homes, loved ones, or both. The situation remains fluid as authorities work to keep people safe and to provide aid to those who have lost everything.