Landslides in Brazil Claim Ten Lives

Torrential rains in southeast Brazil have triggered deadly landslides, resulting in at least 10 fatalities, with nine deaths reported in the city of Ipatinga and one in nearby Santana do Paraiso. The region experienced around 80 millimeters of rainfall in just one hour on January 12, 2025, leading to significant destruction, including the collapse of homes and the trapping of vehicles. Rescue teams have recovered several bodies, including that of an eight-year-old boy, while one person remains missing despite ongoing search efforts. The state of Minas Gerais has declared a public calamity, enabling emergency measures to assist the affected communities and facilitate rescue operations. Governor Romeu Zema has expressed solidarity with the victims and announced plans to visit the impacted areas. The disaster underscores the recurring issue of landslides in Brazil during heavy rainfall periods.