Heavy Rains Claim 25 Lives in Minas Gerais, Brazil

Juiz de fora: Heavy rains in the southeastern state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, have claimed the lives of at least 25 people, with 43 more reported missing. Brazilian authorities disclosed on Tuesday that the devastating weather conditions have severely impacted the region, with 18 bodies found in Chuiz de Fora and seven in the town of Uba, approximately 110 kilometers apart.

According to Thai News Agency, President Luis In¡cio Lula da Silva has expressed his condolences to the affected families and emphasized the government's commitment to providing humanitarian assistance. The government is working to accelerate the restoration of basic services, support displaced persons, and assist in the reconstruction of damaged areas. The city hall of Juiz de Fora reported that the heavy rainfall has displaced approximately 440 people, leading to flooding and landslides, and resulting in the temporary suspension of classes in municipal schools.

The state's fire department has mobilized a team of experts and deployed 141 personnel to manage the situation, with 113 officers in Suiz de Fora and 28 in Uba. Reports indicate that 40 individuals remain missing in Suiz de Fora and 3 in Uba.

In response to the crisis, the Brazilian government has declared a state of disaster in Juiz de Fora to expedite relief efforts and the distribution of humanitarian aid. Mayor Margarida Saloma of Chuiz de Fora has described the situation as critical on social media, while the Brazilian National Meteorological Institute has issued a heavy rain warning affecting 14 states, including all of Minas Gerais and Rio de Janeiro.