Tornado Tears Through Southern Brazil
A powerful tornado struck Paraná, a southern state in Brazil, causing significant devastation. The violent storm hit Friday night, resulting in six deaths and injuring more than 400 people. Around 1,000 residents were displaced as strong winds and heavy rain tore through local towns.
Impact on Rio Bonito do Iguaçu
The town of Rio Bonito do Iguaçu was the hardest hit. According to the state’s civil defence agency, over half of the urban area was damaged, with collapsed roofs and severely affected buildings.
Injuries and Evacuations
- 437 people received treatment for injuries caused by the tornado.
- Approximately 1,000 residents were forced to evacuate their homes.
Additional Damage in Guarapuava
The nearby city of Guarapuava also suffered considerable damage due to the storm.
Meteorological Data
Meteorologists from the Paraná Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring System estimated the tornado's winds to range between 180 and 250 kilometres per hour (111–155 mph).
Government Response
Institutional Relations Minister Gleisi Hoffmann announced she would visit the affected areas on Saturday alongside Acting Health Minister Adriano Massuda and other federal officials to help coordinate relief efforts and reconstruction.
“We will continue to support the people of Paraná and provide all necessary help.” – President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva### Author’s summary
The tornado left a trail of destruction in Paraná, Brazil, causing fatalities, injuries, and widespread displacement, with government officials mobilizing for relief and recovery.