New Delhi, March 1 -- Landslides and flooding in Brazil's Minas Gerais that have been state triggered by days of heavy rains have claimed the lives of 64 people, authorities say.

Downpours that started late Monday have wreaked havoc across parts of the cities of Juiz de Fora and Uba, about 310 kilometers (192 miles) north of Rio de Janeiro. Throughout the week, rescuers have been assisting victims and recovering bodies.

Minas Gerais's fire department said five people are missing, while more than 5,500 people have been forced to leave their homes.

President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva will visit the devastated region on Saturday to meet with local leaders, according to a statement from the presidential palace.

The federal government has ...