Southern Brazil floods leave dozens dead and rescue operations intensify
Severe flooding and landslides triggered by torrential rainfall in the southeastern state of Minas Gerais have left at least 64 people confirmed dead, with more still missing and emergency crews continuing search and rescue operations. The cities of Juiz de Fora and Ubá have been hardest hit, with large swathes of residential areas inundated and infrastructure damaged including roads and bridges. Authorities reported that heavy rainfall since earlier this week has forced more than 4,700 residents to evacuate their homes and seek shelter elsewhere.
President promises free housing and financial aid for flood victims in Minas Gerais
During his visit to Juiz de Fora, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva announced immediate assistance measures for families impacted by torrential rains that have killed at least 70 people in Minas Gerais. Addressing residents in the worst-affected city, he pledged free housing for those who lost their homes and access to funds from employment guarantee schemes. The president outlined a purchase assistance system allowing families to choose replacement homes anywhere in the state. Stressing that no victim would be left unsupported, Lula urged authorities to avoid bureaucratic delays in responding to the crisis. According to the state fire brigade, the majority of fatalities occurred in Juiz de Fora, with additional deaths reported in nearby Uba.
Bolsonaro’s son draws level with Lula in new presidential poll
A new electoral survey published by El Pais shows one of Jair Bolsonaro’s sons statistically tied with Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva for the first time in a hypothetical presidential race. The poll marks a significant shift in Brazil’s political landscape, suggesting the Bolsonaro family retains strong support despite ongoing legal and political challenges. Analysts cited by the newspaper point to growing polarisation and dissatisfaction among segments of the electorate as factors behind the narrowing gap. While Lula remains a central figure in Brazilian politics, the emergence of a Bolsonaro heir as a competitive contender underscores the enduring influence of the former president’s political movement ahead of future elections.
Lula hails Women’s World Cup, calls for greater recognition of women’s football
Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has publicly praised the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027, which Brazil will host, and called for the sport to receive greater institutional and cultural recognition. Speaking at an event tied to the Women’s World Cup trophy tour in Brasília, Lula underscored the importance of elevating women’s football in Brazil and globally, linking the tournament to broader efforts for gender equality in sport. He said the heightened visibility offered by the World Cup presents an opportunity to address longstanding disparities, including in pay and professional support, between male and female athletes. Brazilian officials and sports representatives at the ceremony echoed his remarks, highlighting how the tournament could inspire future generations and advance recognition of women’s achievements on the pitch.
São Paulo initiative offers hygiene and legal aid to crack cocaine users
A programme in São Paulo is providing free showers, legal advice and social support to people struggling with crack cocaine addiction. The initiative operates in areas long associated with open drug use and seeks to restore dignity while connecting individuals with public services. By offering basic hygiene facilities and access to lawyers, organisers aim to rebuild trust between vulnerable populations and authorities. The scheme reflects a harm-reduction approach that prioritises social reintegration over punitive measures, amid ongoing debate in Brazil over how best to address chronic drug dependency and urban marginalisation.
