Brazil Tornado Kills Six in Rio Bonito do Iguacu
A tornado, accompanied by strong winds and heavy rain, struck the southern Brazilian state of Paraná, killing six people, the state government reported on Saturday.
Impact on Rio Bonito do Iguacu
The town of Rio Bonito do Iguacu was the hardest hit late on Friday. The state's civil defense agency stated that more than half of the urban area experienced roof collapses and various structural damages.
Casualties and Displacement
- 437 people were treated for injuries.
- About 1,000 residents were displaced due to the tornado.
Effects on Nearby Areas
The nearby city of Guarapuava also faced impacts from the severe weather event.
Wind Speeds and Meteorological Data
The Paraná Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring System recorded tornado wind speeds ranging from 180 kph (111 mph) to 250 kph (155 mph).
Government Response
Institutional Relations Minister Gleisi Hoffmann announced plans to visit the affected area on Saturday with acting Health Minister Adriano Massuda and other federal officials to support relief and reconstruction efforts.
“We will continue to assist the people of Paraná and provide all the help needed,” President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva wrote on X, expressing condolences to the victims’ families.
Author's summary: A devastating tornado in Paraná left six dead, hundreds injured, and thousands displaced, prompting swift governmental relief and recovery efforts.