Deadly Tornado Ravages Southern Brazilian Town, Killing Six and Injuring Hundreds
A violent tornado tore through the southern Brazilian city of Rio Bonito do Iguaçu on Friday, November 7, leaving at least six people dead and 750 injured. The powerful weather event, which lasted mere minutes, overturned vehicles and flattened entire homes in the town of 14,000 residents, prompting local authorities to declare a state of emergency.
Widespread Damage and Rescue Efforts
According to the latest official report, the death toll stands at six. Firefighters and rescue teams from neighboring municipalities provided emergency treatment to 750 injured individuals, nine of whom are in serious condition and several required surgery.
The Paraná state government has activated its emergency response plan. “We are working on plans for humanitarian aid, sending supplies, and supporting reconstruction efforts,” announced Waldez Góes, the Minister of Integration and Regional Development, via social media platform X.
A Scene of Total Destruction
Civil defense authorities report that 90% of the town was affected. Images circulating on social media show houses with roofs ripped off and structures completely demolished. Rescue crews continue to search through rubble for survivors, with one person still officially missing.
“Everything was destroyed. The town, the houses, the schools. What will become of us?” Roselei Dalcandon told a local news channel in front of the ruins of her shop. She recounted how she had just stepped outside when the tornado struck, leaving her son inside alone. “When the wind calmed down a bit, my husband came running. But he was okay. The shop was gone, but he got out alive. God saved him.”
Colonel Fernando Schunig, director of Paraná’s Civil Defense, described the aftermath to the G1 news portal as “a scene of war.” The Paraná Environmental Technology and Monitoring System recorded wind speeds reaching 250 km/h (155 mph) during the tornado.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva expressed his condolences on X, writing: “I wish to express my sincere condolences to all the families who lost loved ones in the tornado.” A shelter has been established in a neighboring town for displaced residents.
Source: France 24