Deadly Tornado Strikes Paraná, Brazil
An exceptionally powerful tornado hit the southern Brazilian state of Paraná on Friday evening, resulting in six fatalities and over 400 injuries, local authorities reported.
Impact on Iguazu River City
The city of Iguazu River suffered the most damage, with more than half of its urban area experiencing roof collapses and significant structural harm. Roads were blocked, power poles were downed, and several neighborhoods remain without electricity.
Nearly 1,000 residents have been displaced, according to the state civil protection agency.
Effects on Guarapuava and Weather Data
The neighboring city of Guarapuava was partially affected by strong winds. The Paraná weather monitoring system estimated wind gusts between 180 and 250 km/h, a rarely seen intensity for this region.
Government Response
On Saturday, Minister of Institutional Relations Gleisi Hoffmann and acting Minister of Health Adriano Massuda visited the affected areas to coordinate relief efforts and evaluate reconstruction needs.
Chairperson Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva expressed support on X (formerly Twitter): "We will continue to assist the people of Paraná and provide them with all the necessary aid."
Relief and Rescue Operations
Firefighters, the Red Cross, and local volunteers remain actively engaged in searching for missing persons and helping relocate those displaced to temporary shelters.
Summary: A severe tornado in Paraná, Brazil, caused widespread destruction, claiming six lives and displacing nearly 1,000 people, with ongoing government-led relief efforts.