Devastating Tornado Hits Paraná, Brazil
An exceptionally powerful tornado struck the southern Brazilian state of Paraná on Friday evening, leaving six people dead and injuring more than 400, according to local authorities.
Impact on Iguazu River City
The city of Beautiful Iguazu River was the hardest hit, with over half of its urban area suffering roof collapses and significant structural damage. Roads were cut off, power poles torn down, and several neighborhoods remain without electricity.
Nearly 1,000 residents have been displaced, as reported by the state civil protection agency.
Effects on Nearby Areas
The neighboring city of Guarapuava also experienced partial damage from the powerful winds.
Tornado Intensity
The Paraná weather monitoring system estimated that the tornado produced gusts ranging from 180 to 250 km/h, an unusual level of violence for this region of Brazil.
Response and Relief Efforts
On Saturday, Minister of Institutional Relations Gleisi Hoffmann and acting Minister of Health Adriano Massuda visited the affected areas to coordinate relief efforts and assess reconstruction needs.
Chairperson Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva expressed solidarity on X (formerly Twitter):
"We will continue to assist the people of Paraná and provide them with all the necessary aid."
Firefighters, the Red Cross, and local volunteers remain active in searching for missing persons and relocating those affected to temporary shelters.
Summary: The powerful tornado that struck Paraná caused significant fatalities, injuries, and damage, with ongoing coordinated efforts to provide aid and support reconstruction.