Heavy rains in Brazil's southeastern Minas Gerais state have claimed 68 lives as of Friday, February 27, 2026, with rescue teams racing against time to reach isolated communities. Torrential downpours triggered landslides and flash floods, collapsing homes and cutting off entire neighborhoods.
💔 Local authorities report over 20,000 residents have been displaced, with emergency shelters operating at full capacity. Social media footage shows streets transformed into raging rivers, with volunteers using inflatable boats to evacuate families.
🌐 The disaster highlights growing climate challenges in South America, following last year's record floods in Argentina. Meteorologists warn more rain is expected this weekend, complicating recovery efforts.
👩⚕️ 'We're prioritizing vulnerable groups—children, elders, and people with disabilities,' said Minas Gerais Civil Defense coordinator Ana Silva during a press briefing. International aid organizations are mobilizing relief supplies as Brazil's government declares a state of emergency.
