Tornado Devastates Southern Brazil, Causing Multiple Casualties
A severe tornado struck Paraná, a southern state in Brazil, on Friday night, resulting in six fatalities, over 400 injuries, and displacing about 1,000 residents as fierce winds swept through several towns.
Impact and Damage
The town of Rio Bonito do Iguaçu bore the brunt of the disaster, with more than half of its urban area heavily damaged. The state civil defence agency reported widespread destruction, including collapsed roofs and damaged buildings. Nearby Guarapuava also suffered significant damage.
Casualties and Evacuations
- Six people lost their lives due to the tornado.
- 437 individuals received medical treatment for injuries.
- Approximately 1,000 people were compelled to leave their homes.
Meteorological Details
Meteorologists from the Paraná Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring System assessed tornado winds between 180 and 250 km/h (111–155 mph).
Government Response
Institutional Relations Minister Gleisi Hoffmann announced intentions to visit the disaster zone alongside Acting Health Minister Adriano Massuda and other federal officials to coordinate relief efforts.
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva expressed his sympathies on X, stating, “We will continue to support the people of Paraná and provide all necessary help.”
The government is actively organizing aid and reconstruction to help the affected communities recover from this tragedy.
Summary: A powerful tornado caused devastating damage in Paraná, Brazil, killing six and injuring hundreds, prompting swift government action to support recovery and relief efforts.