Heavy Rains in Southeastern Brazil Cause Over 20 Deaths and Dozens Missing

Heavy rains in southeastern Brazil's Minas Gerais state have caused flooding and landslides, resulting in at least 22 to 23 deaths and around 45 to 47 people reported missing, primarily in Juiz de Fora and Uba. Approximately 440 residents have been displaced, and classes in municipal schools were suspended. The government declared a state of calamity in Juiz de Fora to expedite aid. President Lula da Silva expressed condolences and emphasized humanitarian assistance and reconstruction efforts amid the region's rainiest February on record.