A devastating tornado has torn through southern Brazil, leaving at least six people dead and hundreds more injured in what authorities are describing as an unprecedented catastrophe for the region.
Destruction in Minutes
The powerful twister struck the state of Paraná late on Friday, with winds reaching speeds of up to 155mph. The tornado unleashed its full force in less than a minute, yet managed to cause widespread destruction across multiple communities.
In the town of Rio Bonito do Iguaçu, home to approximately 14,000 inhabitants, around 90% of buildings were destroyed. Shocking footage from the aftermath shows the area almost completely flattened, with houses stripped of their roofs, electricity pylons torn from the ground, and vehicles overturned.
Casualties and Emergency Response
Among the six confirmed fatalities are three men aged 49, 57 and 83, and two women, aged 47 and 14, all from Rio Bonito do Iguaçu. A 53-year-old man was killed in the nearby city of Guarapuava, while one person remains missing.
Emergency services have treated approximately 750 people for injuries, including children and pregnant women. At least ten patients required surgery, with nine remaining in a critical condition. Around 1,000 residents have been displaced from their homes, and 60,000 properties lost power following the disaster that struck around 5.30pm local time.
State of Calamity Declared
Paraná Governor Ratinho Júnior described the tornado as an "unprecedented catastrophe in the history" of the state. Authorities have declared a state of public calamity in the affected municipalities, enabling emergency measures and facilitating federal support.
Rio Bonito do Iguaçu's mayor, Sezar Augusto, reported that 80% of the town "was on the ground", adding that hospitals were overcrowded with injured people, many suffering from head wounds. Rescue teams continue to search for people trapped under rubble, with many vehicles buried in the debris.
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva expressed his condolences to victims' families and confirmed that government ministers and National Civil Defense technicians are en route to the region to assist with rescue efforts and humanitarian aid.
Weather specialists from Climatempo reported that the cyclone associated with a cold front may continue to generate strong winds in neighbouring states, urging residents to avoid open areas and be alert to falling structures, trees and power lines.
