Death toll in Brazilian floods rises to 46 as rescuers continue search | Floods News
Death Toll from Recent Floods in Brazil Rises to 46
Emergency responders in Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil, continue their search for residents missing following devastating floods that have left towns engulfed in mud and debris. The state fire department announced on Wednesday that the death toll has reached 46, with approximately 21 individuals still unaccounted for.
Most casualties occurred in Juiz de Fora, where 40 fatalities were recorded. The remaining six deaths took place in the nearby town of Uba. Authorities report that around 3,600 residents have been displaced from their homes due to the adverse conditions.
“Our family is desperate,” said Josiane Aparecida, a 43-year-old cook from Juiz de Fora. She has lost both her aunt and cousin to a landslide, while her cousin’s boyfriend and their two children, aged six and nine, remain missing. “We have hope, yet we do not, because it’s so difficult to find them, and we’ve already lost two,” she added.
Torrential rains have resulted in swollen rivers and unstable soil, leading to widespread destruction. An 11-year-old boy, Bernardo Lopes Dutra, was among the deceased. His father, Ricardo Dutra, described him as a kind-hearted child who left a lasting impression on those around him.
Search and rescue operations are ongoing, but firefighters have expressed concerns that those missing are unlikely to be found alive. Mayor Margarida Salomao of Juiz de Fora reported at least 20 landslides since the onset of heavy rains this week. Brazilian meteorological authorities have warned of more rain in the forecast.
Local residents voice frustration over the lack of support during such crises. “We never had support from the public authorities to help us with anything,” said Flavio Clemente Rodrigues, a resident of Juiz de Fora.
Scientists have noted that climate change is intensifying the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, including flooding. Meanwhile, neighboring Peru has declared a state of emergency amid heavy rainfall affecting half of the country’s districts.
As the situation continues to develop, emergency management officials remain focused on recovery efforts and providing assistance to those affected by the floods.
