In a tragic turn of events, landslides in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais have resulted in the deaths of at least 10 individuals, according to state officials. The most affected location is the Bethania neighborhood in the city of Ipatinga, where the mudslides ensued after an astonishing 204mm (8 inches) of rain fell within a single morning. Landslides caused by heavy rains are a common hazard during the rainy season, particularly threatening neighborhoods that are situated on steep hillsides.
Tragic Landslides Claim Lives in Minas Gerais, Brazil
Tragic Landslides Claim Lives in Minas Gerais, Brazil
Devastating mudslides ravage residential areas following extreme rainfall in Brazil's Minas Gerais state.
Due to the impact of the disaster, Ipatinga's Mayor Gustavo Nunes has declared a state of emergency. Estimates suggest that around 150 people are now homeless, with the city located approximately 570 kilometers north of Rio de Janeiro facing an urgent crisis. Mayor Nunes expressed surprise at the intensity of the rainfall, stating, "There was no time for people to prepare."
Of the confirmed fatalities, nine were reported in Ipatinga, while another body has been located about a half-hour drive away in Santana do Paraíso. In a glimmer of hope amid the despair, local media shared stories of two youths who managed to escape from their home, where five of their relatives were tragically lost beneath the rubble.
The landslides also severely damaged the city's health center, leaving it unfit to serve patients in need. Ipatinga's health minister, Walisson Medeiros, indicated that all patients awaiting care were relocated to ensure their safety. Responding to the crisis, neighboring cities have stepped in to provide support during this difficult time.
In a show of solidarity, Minas Gerais Governor Romeu Zema announced he would visit the affected areas later on Monday, as the community begins the slow process of recovery and support for the victims.
Of the confirmed fatalities, nine were reported in Ipatinga, while another body has been located about a half-hour drive away in Santana do Paraíso. In a glimmer of hope amid the despair, local media shared stories of two youths who managed to escape from their home, where five of their relatives were tragically lost beneath the rubble.
The landslides also severely damaged the city's health center, leaving it unfit to serve patients in need. Ipatinga's health minister, Walisson Medeiros, indicated that all patients awaiting care were relocated to ensure their safety. Responding to the crisis, neighboring cities have stepped in to provide support during this difficult time.
In a show of solidarity, Minas Gerais Governor Romeu Zema announced he would visit the affected areas later on Monday, as the community begins the slow process of recovery and support for the victims.
