Severe floods in southeast Brazil kill at least 25 and force hundreds to evacuate

Severe floods in southeastern Brazil have killed at least 25 people and left dozens missing in the state of Minas Gerais, officials said on Tuesday (February 24, 2026). Meteorologists warned that more rain is expected in the region in the next few days.

The torrential rains began on Monday (February 23) in the cities of Juiz de Fora and Uba, about 310 kilometres (192 miles) north of Rio de Janeiro, forcing about 440 residents to evacuate their homes.

Minas Gerais’ fire department says it is searching for 43 people who went missing since late on Monday. A video shared by the department showed flooded streets in Juiz de Fora and Uba, where a river veered off its course.

Officials have warned residents to stay away from areas that could be prone to mudslides.

Juiz de Fora is a city of 5.6 lakh residents, while neighbouring Uba has 1.07 lakh, according to Brazil’s statistics agency.

Rescue, assistance being provided: Lula

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said on his social media channels that security forces are working on the rescue and providing immediate assistance to the population affected by the rain.

Brazil’s meteorology institute Inmet said in a statement that more rain is forecast for the region, which lies close to hills, valleys and slopes.

Juiz de Fora City Hall said in a statement the city experienced double the rain expected for February. Mayor Margarida Salomao said earlier at least 20 landslides were reported.

Firefighter Demetrius Bastos Goulart, 47, said rescue efforts will be slow and lengthy.

“It is a high volume (of mud) in the landslides, we have to work with a lot of precision to avoid any damage to potential victims,” Mr. Goulard told The Associated Press.