Heavy rain in Minas Gerais, Brazil, has caused at least 25 deaths and left 43 people missing, according to reports. Firefighters, sniffer dogs, and volunteers are searching through mud and debris. About 440 residents have left their homes, and schools are closed.
Juiz de Fora recorded 584 millimetres of rain in February, the highest on record, with twice the average rainfall for the month. At least 20 landslides were reported. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva declared a state of emergency and promised federal aid, while more rain is forecast for the hilly region.
Local media reportedly state that 14 people have died and 45 are missing in the state, and 400 people have been forced to leave their homes due to the rain, the worst in February since measurements began.