Brazil Tornado Leaves Six Dead, Hundreds Injured in Parana
A powerful tornado accompanied by intense winds and heavy rain struck the southern Brazilian state of Parana, resulting in six deaths, according to state authorities on Saturday.
Destruction in Rio Bonito do Iguacu
The town of Rio Bonito do Iguacu suffered the heaviest damage late Friday. Civil defense officials reported that more than half of the urban area experienced roof collapses and significant structural failures. Around 437 people were injured, and about 1,000 residents were forced to leave their homes.
Impact Spread to Nearby Areas
The nearby city of Guarapuava also sustained damage. Meteorologists with the Parana Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring System estimated the tornado’s wind speeds between 180 and 250 kilometers per hour (111–155 mph).
Government Response and Support
Institutional Relations Minister Gleisi Hoffmann announced plans to visit the disaster site on Saturday with acting Health Minister Adriano Massuda and other federal officials to oversee assistance efforts.
“We will continue to assist the people of Parana and provide all the help needed,” wrote President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on X, expressing condolences to the victims’ families.
Summary
Six people perished and hundreds were injured after a tornado devastated parts of Parana, Brazil, prompting federal relief efforts and nationwide condolences.