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Landslides in Minas Gerais Claim Lives and Displace Residents
At least ten individuals have lost their lives due to devastating landslides in two cities within the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais, as confirmed by state officials. These mudslides were caused by severe rainfall that plagued the region.
The city of Ipatinga, particularly the Bethania neighborhood, experienced the most significant impact from the landslides. According to reports, the area received an overwhelming 204mm (approximately 8 inches) of rain early Sunday morning, resulting in the catastrophic events.
During the rainy season, landslides in this region are a frequent occurrence, particularly affecting neighborhoods built precariously on steep slopes. The current situation underscores the vulnerability of such communities to extreme weather phenomena.
In response to the disaster, Ipatinga’s mayor, Gustavo Nunes, has declared a state of emergency. The toll of the event has left at least 150 residents homeless, highlighting the scale of the destruction in the area, which lies roughly 570 km north of Rio de Janeiro.
Mayor Nunes expressed astonishment at the intensity of the rain, stating, “There was no time for people to prepare,” reflecting the suddenness of the disaster.
As of now, nine fatalities have been confirmed in Ipatinga alone, alongside another victim found in Santana do ParaÃso, approximately a half-hour’s drive from the city. Reports indicate a harrowing incident where two young individuals escaped from their home, where five family members tragically succumbed to the landslide.
In addition to the loss of life and homes, local infrastructure has also suffered. The damage extended to the city’s health center, rendering it incapable of serving the community. Ipatinga’s health minister, Walisson Medeiros, stated that all patients awaiting transfer have been relocated, thanking neighboring municipalities for their readiness to assist.
Governor Romeu Zema of Minas Gerais has announced plans to visit the impacted areas later today, signaling a commitment to support the recovery efforts following this natural disaster.
Source
www.bbc.com