Devastating Tornado Strikes Paraná, Brazil
An exceptionally powerful tornado hit the southern Brazilian state of Paraná on Friday evening, resulting in six deaths and over 400 injuries, according to local authorities.
Impact on Iguazu River City
The city of Iguazu River was the hardest hit, with more than half of its urban area experiencing roof collapses and significant structural damage. Roads were cut off, power poles were torn down, and several neighborhoods remain without electricity.
Nearly 1,000 residents have been displaced, as reported by the state civil protection agency.
Effects in Guarapuava and Weather Details
The neighboring city of Guarapuava also suffered partial damage from the strong winds. The Paraná weather monitoring system estimated wind gusts between 180 and 250 km/h, an intensity rarely seen in this region.
Official Responses and Relief Efforts
On Saturday, Minister of Institutional Relations Gleisi Hoffmann and acting Minister of Health Adriano Massuda visited the area to coordinate relief operations and assess reconstruction needs.
Chairperson Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva expressed solidarity on X (formerly Twitter):
"We will continue to assist the people of Paraná and provide them with all the necessary aid."
Firefighters, the Red Cross, and local volunteers remain actively engaged in searching for missing persons and relocating affected residents to temporary shelters.
Summary
This powerful tornado caused severe destruction in Paraná, Brazil, leaving six dead, displacing many, and triggering a coordinated emergency response.