The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is supporting authorities in responding to the impacts of heavy rains that struck Juiz de Fora, Matias Barbosa and Ubá, in the state of Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil, which have caused loss of life, displacement and significant damage this week.
IOM said in the press release note that the State Civil Defense estimates that more than 3,500 people have been displaced due to the record rainfall, with precipitation levels three times higher than expected for the month of February. More than 1,400 incidents have already been addressed by the Civil Defense this month in the municipality, which is characterized by hills and mountainous terrain.
As an immediate measure, essential relief items will be delivered to Juiz de Fora’s municipal authorities this Friday. In partnership with the National Social Assistance Task Force (FORSUAS), under the Ministry of Development and Social Assistance, Family and Fight Against Hunger, IOM is also mobilizing a team to provide technical support for the management and organization of shelter facilities for people who have been forced to leave their homes, the release noted.
Additionally, IOM is supporting a campaign launched by Vakinha, a crowdfunding platform, to benefit victims of the rains and landslides in Juiz de Fora to fund the purchase of safe drinking water, cleaning and hygiene supplies, and food baskets, among other emergency items.
In 2024, IOM supported the response to severe flooding in Rio Grande do Sul, where more than 1,000 people were hosted for nearly a year in three reception centres in Porto Alegre and Canoas.
IOM expresses its condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and stands in solidarity with all those affected and remains committed to supporting response and recovery efforts in coordination with national and local authorities, it reads.
