As of February 26, 2026, the death toll from severe flooding and landslides in southeastern Brazil's Minas Gerais state has tragically risen to 54, with 14 individuals still unaccounted for. The relentless downpours have forced over 5,000 residents to evacuate their homes, particularly in the cities of Juiz de Fora and Uba. Luiz Otavio Souza, a local resident, expressed the community's fear, stating, "Everyone is panicking, friends and relatives are asking how we are, it’s like a horror movie." The situation has been exacerbated by accusations against the state government for drastically cutting disaster prevention funding by 95% over the past three years, as reported by Jornal Nacional. Governor Romeu Zema defended his administration, denying these claims amidst growing public concern about the lack of preparedness for such natural disasters.
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Severe Flooding In Minas Gerais, Brazil Leaves 54 Dead
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Severe flooding in Minas Gerais, Brazil, has claimed 54 lives, with 14 missing. Over 5,000 evacuated as state funding cuts hinder disaster response. Emergency declared amid ongoing rescue efforts.
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