A devastating tornado has torn through southern Brazil, leaving a trail of destruction, multiple fatalities, and hundreds of people injured.
State of Emergency Declared
The powerful tornado struck the state of Parana on Friday night, with state officials confirming the grim toll on Saturday. Six people lost their lives, including five adults and a 14-year-old girl. The storm, which generated winds exceeding 250 kph (155 mph), prompted Gov. Carlos Massa Ratinho Jr. to declare a state of emergency in the affected region.
In the aftermath, officials reported that at least one person remains missing as search and rescue efforts continue. The scale of the human impact is severe, with more than 750 individuals, including children and pregnant women, requiring medical attention. Of these, at least ten people underwent surgery and nine were reported to be in a serious condition.
Widespread Destruction and Response
The tornado's ferocious winds caused catastrophic damage to the local infrastructure. Dozens of homes were completely destroyed. The storm also downed countless trees, overturned vehicles, and ripped the roofs off numerous buildings.
In response to the tragedy, Governor Ratinho Jr. has declared three days of mourning in Parana. Five of the victims were from the municipality of Rio Bonito do Iguaçu, with the sixth being from Guarapuava.
The federal government has also mobilised. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva expressed his solidarity with the victims on social media. Members of his Cabinet have announced the dispatch of emergency assistance to the area, which will include essential supplies such as food, hygiene products, tarps, and mattresses for those who have lost their homes.
