Brazil Tornado Leaves Six Dead, Hundreds Injured in Parana
A powerful tornado accompanied by intense winds and heavy rainfall struck the southern Brazilian state of Parana, leaving six people dead, according to state officials on Saturday.
Destruction in Rio Bonito do Iguacu
The town of Rio Bonito do Iguacu was hit hardest late Friday. Civil defense authorities reported that more than half of the urban zone suffered roof collapses and significant structural damage. At least 437 residents sustained injuries, and around 1,000 were forced from their homes. The neighboring city of Guarapuava also experienced severe impact.
Winds and Official Response
Data from the Parana Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring System confirmed that wind speeds reached between 180 km/h (111 mph) and 250 km/h (155 mph). Federal officials, including Institutional Relations Minister Gleisi Hoffmann and acting Health Minister Adriano Massuda, announced plans to visit the region to assist with emergency relief and reconstruction efforts.
“We will continue to assist the people of Parana and provide all the help needed,” President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva wrote on X, offering condolences to the victims’ families.
Impact Summary
- 6 dead
- 437 injured
- 1,000 displaced
- Wind speeds up to 250 km/h (155 mph)
Author Summary
The tornado in Parana killed six, injured hundreds, and left thousands displaced as authorities mobilized federal aid for recovery and reconstruction.