Tornado Devastates Southern Brazil, Causing Deaths and Injuries
A severe tornado struck Paraná, a state in southern Brazil, resulting in six fatalities, over 400 injuries, and the displacement of approximately 1,000 residents. The storm brought powerful winds and heavy rain, causing widespread destruction on Friday night.
Impact and Damage
The town of Rio Bonito do Iguaçu was the hardest hit, with more than half of its urban area damaged. The destruction included collapsed roofs and severely harmed buildings. The nearby city of Guarapuava also suffered significant damage.
- Six people died due to the tornado.
- 437 individuals received medical treatment for injuries.
- About 1,000 people were evacuated from their homes.
Meteorological Details
The Paraná Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring System estimated the tornado's wind speeds to be between 180 and 250 kilometers per hour (111–155 mph), highlighting the storm's intensity.
Government Response
Institutional Relations Minister Gleisi Hoffmann announced a planned visit to the affected areas alongside Acting Health Minister Adriano Massuda and other federal officials to oversee relief efforts and reconstruction.
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva expressed his sympathies on X, saying, “We will continue to support the people of Paraná and provide all necessary help.”
Summary: A powerful tornado in Paraná, Brazil, caused extensive damage, killed six people, injured hundreds, and prompted federal officials to mobilize relief efforts.