In a tragic event unfolding in Brazil's Minas Gerais state, at least ten people have lost their lives due to severe landslides that struck the cities of Ipatinga and Santana do Paraíso. The mayor's office confirmed that the Bethania neighborhood of Ipatinga was the hardest hit, where 204mm (8 inches) of rain fell in just a few hours on Sunday morning.
This deluge caused homes in precarious hillside areas to give way, leading to extensive damage and tragic loss of life. Mayor Gustavo Nunes declared a state of emergency as local officials reported that at least 150 individuals have been left homeless following the disaster. "We were caught off-guard by the intensity of the rains; there was no time for residents to prepare," Nunes stated.
Current reports indicate that nine bodies have been discovered in Ipatinga, with an additional victim found in Santana do Paraíso, located a short drive away. Remarkably, two young individuals survived after escaping their home, which was crushed by the mudslide that buried five of their family members.
In addition to the human toll, the disaster has also caused critical damage to local infrastructure, including the city’s health center. Health Minister Walisson Medeiros conveyed concerns regarding the center’s condition, stating that it is unable to provide care, prompting patient transfers to neighboring facilities.
Minas Gerais Governor Romeu Zema has announced plans to visit the affected regions later Monday, as rescue efforts continue and communities rally to support those in need during this challenging time. This tragic incident underscores the recurring threat of landslides during Brazil's rainy season, particularly in areas where homes are built on unstable hillsides.
This deluge caused homes in precarious hillside areas to give way, leading to extensive damage and tragic loss of life. Mayor Gustavo Nunes declared a state of emergency as local officials reported that at least 150 individuals have been left homeless following the disaster. "We were caught off-guard by the intensity of the rains; there was no time for residents to prepare," Nunes stated.
Current reports indicate that nine bodies have been discovered in Ipatinga, with an additional victim found in Santana do Paraíso, located a short drive away. Remarkably, two young individuals survived after escaping their home, which was crushed by the mudslide that buried five of their family members.
In addition to the human toll, the disaster has also caused critical damage to local infrastructure, including the city’s health center. Health Minister Walisson Medeiros conveyed concerns regarding the center’s condition, stating that it is unable to provide care, prompting patient transfers to neighboring facilities.
Minas Gerais Governor Romeu Zema has announced plans to visit the affected regions later Monday, as rescue efforts continue and communities rally to support those in need during this challenging time. This tragic incident underscores the recurring threat of landslides during Brazil's rainy season, particularly in areas where homes are built on unstable hillsides.
