Devastating Tornado Strikes Paraná, Brazil
On Friday evening, an exceptionally powerful tornado hit the southern Brazilian state of Paraná, resulting in six fatalities and over 400 injuries, according to local authorities.
Impact on Iguazu River City
The city of Iguazu River experienced the most severe damage, with more than half of its urban area suffering roof collapses and significant structural damage. Roads were blocked, power poles were downed, and several neighborhoods remain without electricity.
Nearly 1,000 residents have been displaced, reported the state civil protection agency.
Damage in Guarapuava
The neighboring city of Guarapuava also faced partial damage due to the strong winds.
Tornado Strength and Response
The Paraná weather monitoring system estimated wind gusts between 180 and 250 km/h, an intensity rarely observed in the region.
On Saturday, Minister of Institutional Relations Gleisi Hoffmann and acting Minister of Health Adriano Massuda visited the affected areas to coordinate relief and evaluate reconstruction efforts.
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."
Ongoing Relief Efforts
- Firefighters, Red Cross, and local volunteers remain active in searching for missing persons.
- Efforts are ongoing to relocate displaced residents to temporary shelters.
Author’s summary: A rare and powerful tornado in Paraná, Brazil caused six deaths, widespread damage, and large-scale displacement, with authorities actively coordinating emergency response and recovery.