Devastating Tornado Hits Paraná, Brazil
An exceptionally powerful tornado struck the southern Brazilian state of Paraná on Friday evening, resulting in six deaths and injuring over 400 people, 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 have been blocked, power poles have been uprooted, and several neighborhoods remain without electricity.
Nearly 1,000 residents have been displaced, according to the state civil protection agency.
Effects on Neighboring Areas
The nearby city of Guarapuava also suffered partial damage from the tornado’s powerful winds.
Weather Details and Response
- The Paraná weather monitoring system estimated wind gusts between 180 and 250 km/h, a rare level of intensity for the region.
- The Minister of Institutional Relations, Gleisi Hoffmann, and the acting Minister of Health, Adriano Massuda, visited the affected areas on Saturday to coordinate relief efforts and evaluate reconstruction needs.
- Firefighters, the Red Cross, and local volunteers are continuing search-and-rescue operations and helping relocate displaced residents to temporary shelters.
Official Statements
Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Chairperson, expressed solidarity on X (formerly Twitter): “We will continue to assist the people of Paraná and provide them with all the necessary aid.”
Such a tornado is a rare and destructive event for Paraná, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated relief and reconstruction efforts.
Summary: A rare and powerful tornado devastated southern Paraná, Brazil, killing six, injuring hundreds, displacing nearly a thousand, and causing extensive structural damage, prompting swift government and volunteer response.