In brief
Tragic landslides in Brazil's Minas Gerais state have resulted in the deaths of at least 10 individuals, with the worst-hit area being the Bethania neighbourhood in the city of Ipatinga, where intense rainfall triggered the disaster.
The mayor's office reported that the region experienced a staggering 204mm (8in) of rain on Sunday morning, overwhelming the community. Landslides during the rainy season are common in this area, particularly affecting homes precariously situated on steep hillsides. Following the tragedy that unfolded, Ipatinga’s Mayor Gustavo Nunes declared a state of emergency, noting that the severe weather caught residents off guard, offering no time for preparation. Of the confirmed casualties, nine were reported from Ipatinga, while another body was discovered in the nearby Santana do Paraíso. Two young individuals managed to survive after escaping their home, which was destroyed, resulting in the loss of five family members. The disaster also inflicted damage on local health facilities, rendering the health centre unable to provide care, necessitating patient transfers. Governor Romeu Zema has vowed to visit the affected regions to assess the situation, while the city's officials express gratitude for assistance from neighboring areas as they navigate this crisis. Many residents are now facing homelessness, with at least 150 individuals displaced. Reports of landslides and flooding during Brazil's rainy seasons highlight ongoing challenges for communities in vulnerable regions.
