The relentless rains battering southeastern Brazil have resulted in a heartbreaking death toll of 68 in Minas Gerais province. Dominated by Juiz de Fora with 62 deaths, the calamity also struck Ubá, claiming six lives.
Authorities attribute the rising numbers to bodies recovered from rubble and fatalities among the wounded. With three missing in Juiz de Fora and two in Ubá, hope flickers as teams persist. Excavators, sniffer dogs, and brave rescuers delve into the ruins, racing against time.
Triggered by intense afternoon showers on Monday, swollen rivers demolished bridges and flooded underpasses. Uprooted trees crippled roadways, stranding residents. President Lula da Silva conveyed deep sorrow to grieving families and commended the heroism of rescue squads.
A three-day mourning observance was announced by Governor Romeu Zema. The armed forces responded with urgency, deploying to clear paths, supply food and water, build shelters, and offer aid. As the waters recede, Brazil confronts the profound human cost and vows enhanced resilience.