Brazil Tornado Devastates Rio Bonito do Iguacu
A powerful tornado, accompanied by strong winds and heavy rain, struck the southern Brazilian state of Parana, resulting in six fatalities, officials reported on Saturday.
Impact on Rio Bonito do Iguacu
The town of Rio Bonito do Iguacu experienced the most severe damage late Friday. According to the state’s civil defense agency, more than half of the urban area suffered roof collapses and numerous structural failures.
- Six people lost their lives.
- 437 individuals were treated for injuries.
- Approximately 1,000 residents were displaced from their homes.
Effects on Nearby Areas
The nearby city of Guarapuava also faced impact from the storm’s destructive forces.
Tornado Characteristics
The Parana Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring System reported the tornado’s wind speeds ranged from 180 kph (111 mph) to 250 kph (155 mph), illustrating the storm’s extreme intensity.
Government Response
Institutional Relations Minister Gleisi Hoffmann announced plans to visit the affected area on Saturday alongside acting Health Minister Adriano Massuda and other federal officials to aid recovery efforts.
“We will continue to assist the people of Parana and provide all the help needed,” President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva wrote on X, expressing condolences to the families of the victims.
Author’s summary: A devastating tornado in Parana, Brazil, caused deaths, injuries, and widespread destruction, prompting swift government response to support recovery and affected communities.