At least 14 people have died and 440 others displaced after heavy rains hit the southeastern Brazilian city of Juiz de Fora, local authorities said on Tuesday.
The downpours caused severe flooding and landslides, forcing the suspension of classes in municipal schools. Specialised teams have been deployed to respond to emergencies and search for missing residents.
Federal and state agencies have also been called in to support the city in Minas Gerais state, which has declared a state of public calamity, according to a statement from the city hall.
Much of Brazil experiences its peak rainy season during the local summer, from December to March, bringing frequent heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, floods, and mudslides. Juiz de Fora has already recorded its rainiest February on record, with rainfall more than double the monthly average.
Mayor Margarida Salomao described the situation as “critical” in a statement posted on social media.
Brazil’s National Institute of Meteorology has issued heavy‑rain warnings for parts of 14 states, including the entire areas of Minas Gerais and Rio de Janeiro.
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