Powerful winds reaching speeds of up to 155 mph struck Brazil's southern state of Paraná late Friday, unleashing a devastating tornado that lasted less than a minute but caused widespread destruction.
The tornado demolished approximately 90% of Rio Bonito do Iguaçu, a town with nearly 14,000 residents. Visuals show extensive damage, including:
Following the disaster, around 60,000 households in the area lost power. The twister struck at about 5:30 p.m. local time.
Authorities confirmed six fatalities:
Approximately 750 people have been injured and treated, with 10 requiring surgery, of whom nine remain in critical condition. Medical care was provided both in hospitals and on-site, prioritizing vulnerable groups such as children and pregnant women.
Nearly 1,000 residents have been displaced as a result of the tornado's destruction.
"The tornado ripped through the town in less than a minute, leaving devastation in its path and knocking out power to tens of thousands of homes."
Emergency response efforts continue amid the ongoing crisis.
Author's summary: A sudden, intense tornado struck southern Brazil, killing six, injuring hundreds, and destroying nearly the entire town of Rio Bonito do Iguaçu, leaving thousands displaced and without power.