A devastating tornado has struck the southern Brazilian state of Paraná, resulting in six fatalities and leaving at least 750 individuals injured, according to local officials. This disaster has been characterized by Paraná Governor Ratinho Júnior as an “unprecedented catastrophe in the history” of the state.
Reports indicate that the tornado may have reached wind speeds of over 250 km/h (155 mph), particularly affecting the town of Rio Bonito do Iguaçu. The state government revealed that around 90% of residential and commercial properties in the area sustained significant damage, with the governor noting that few structures remain standing.
The destruction was severe, as aerial images displayed roofs torn off buildings and entire structures reduced to rubble. Among the deceased are three men aged 49, 57, and 83, two women aged 47 and 14, all from Rio Bonito do Iguaçu, along with a 53-year-old man from the nearby city of Guarapuava. Authorities report that one person is still unaccounted for, and the casualty numbers may rise as rescue teams continue their efforts.
In response to the disaster, a state of “public calamity” has been declared, granting the government special powers to mobilize resources and seek federal assistance. Meanwhile, Climatempo, a Brazilian television channel focused on weather, warned that this severe weather phenomenon is related to a cold front and could trigger wind gusts exceeding 100 km/h in additional states such as Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina, and São Paulo. Predictions suggest that this system may move toward the sea by Sunday, potentially impacting the coasts of Rio de Janeiro and Espírito Santo.
In light of the ongoing risk, authorities are advising residents to stay away from open areas and remain vigilant regarding the threat posed by collapsing structures, falling trees, and power lines. The community’s resilience in the face of such adversity will be crucial as recovery efforts begin.