Brazil flooding death toll rises to 64 as search efforts continue

"The death toll from landslides and flooding in eastern Brazil has risen to 64, as authorities continue to search for survivors. The update on Friday came days after a long period of heavy rain in the state of Minas Gerais, with the cities of Juiz de Fora and Uba particularly hard hit."

"Brazil's meteorology institute, Inmet, has warned of a great danger of more inclement weather in parts of Minas Gerais, as well as in the neighbouring states of Rio and Sao Paulo along Brazil's Atlantic coast. It also highlighted further risks of landslides, river overflows and major flooding."

"About a quarter of the population about 540,000 people live in places identified as being at risk for natural disasters related to land and water, according to a 2023 report from the Brazilian government agency Cemaden."

Heavy rainfall in Minas Gerais state, Brazil has caused severe flooding and landslides resulting in 64 deaths, with five people still missing and over 5,500 displaced from their homes. Cities of Juiz de Fora and Uba were particularly affected. Brazil's meteorology institute warns of continued danger from inclement weather, landslides, river overflows, and major flooding across Minas Gerais and neighboring states Rio and São Paulo along the Atlantic coast. President Lula will visit the region Saturday to meet local leaders and oversee relief efforts. The federal government authorized approximately 3.4 million reais for reconstruction and humanitarian assistance. About 540,000 residents in Juiz de Fora live in areas identified as high-risk for natural disasters.

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