Juiz de Fora, Brazil: Severe flooding has devastated the northeastern Brazilian state of Minas Gerais, leaving at least 46 people dead and 21 others missing, according to local authorities. The torrential rains have significantly impacted major cities including Juiz de Fora and Uba, disrupting the lives of hundreds of thousands of residents.

Rescue teams have been conducting extensive search operations, continuing their efforts overnight in severely affected areas. Authorities confirmed that approximately 3,000 residents were evacuated from flood-hit localities to safer shelters on Wednesday morning.

The Meteorological Department has forecast continued heavy rainfall over the coming days, raising concerns about additional landslides. In Juiz de Fora, a city with a population of around 560,000, several streets remain submerged in mud and debris. Officials have issued fresh warnings about the risk of further landslides in vulnerable zones.

Meanwhile, life in Uba, home to approximately 107,000 residents, has come to a standstill. Schools have been closed indefinitely as a precautionary measure. Mayor Margarida Salamao stated that at least 20 landslides have been recorded since heavy rains began on Monday.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva assured that the army has been deployed to assist in rescue and relief operations. He also pledged full support to families affected by the disaster. Medical teams have been dispatched to hills, valleys, and low-lying areas to provide emergency assistance.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as rainfall persists across the region.