Photos: Deadly rains cause mudslides in Brazil's 'Imperial City'

At least 94 people died after heavy rains hit Petropolis, a city in Rio de Janeiro

Last updated: February 17, 2022 | 10:41

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Located in the hills above Rio de Janeiro, Petropolis, or the "Imperial City," was the summer getaway of Brazil's monarchs in the 19th century

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At least 94 people died in the historic Brazilian mountain town of Petropolis, local government officials said on Wednesday, after heavy rains caused mudslides that buried homes, flooded the streets and washed away cars and buses.

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There was scant evidence of its regal charms, after the floods ravaged its elegant streets and destroyed its Germanic buildings.

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Rainfall on Tuesday exceeded the average for the entire month of February.

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In the Morro da Oficina neighborhood, up to 80 houses were hit by landslides, according to authorities who expect the death toll to rise.

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Fire department and local civil defense teams were working at the site.

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People work at a site of a mudslide at Morro da Oficina after pouring rains in Petropolis.

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Petropolis' city hall declared three days of mourning. | A man reacts as he looks for his relatives at a mudslide at Morro da Oficina.

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Displaced people were being taken to schools and shelters. More than 300 people had to leave their homes.

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People work at a site of a mudslide at Morro da Oficina after pouring rains in Petropolis.

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Rescue workers searching for any remaining survivors among mud and wreckage at Morro da Oficina after pouring rains in Petropolis.

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