A devastating tornado has resulted in the tragic deaths of six individuals, leaving a path of destruction in Brazil as it unleashed winds reaching 155mph. The powerful tornado wreaked havoc in the southern state of Parana, claiming six lives and causing injuries to over 750 people during its Friday afternoon impact, as confirmed by local authorities. Reports from the county’s Civil Defence indicate that 90% of the city sustained damage due to the tornado’s fury.
Visuals from the affected city portray buildings with roofs ripped off, uprooted trees, twisted structures, and poles askew. The tornado’s rampage also decimated numerous homes, prompting the government to declare a state of emergency in the affected area.
Following the disaster, state officials disclosed that one person remained unaccounted for in the aftermath of the tornado’s strike. Among the casualties were five adults and a 14-year-old girl. In Rio Bonito do Iguaçu, victims included three men aged 49, 57, and 83, along with two women aged 47 and 14, while a 53-year-old man in Guarapuava was also identified as a victim.
One of the victims, Julia Kwapis, was tragically swept away by the tornado while at a friend’s residence in Rio Bonito do Iguaçu. Her family recounted the harrowing experience of searching for Julia, only to discover she had been taken to a hospital in a critical condition. Julia had been eagerly anticipating her Catholic Confirmation, which was scheduled for that day, as mentioned in her last communication with her father.
Authorities reported that numerous individuals, including children and expectant mothers, were transferred to medical facilities and on-site units for treatment. A significant portion required surgical procedures, with nine individuals remaining in critical condition.
Reflecting on the devastation caused by the storm, shop owner Roselei Dalcandon lamented the destruction of her business and the town at large, questioning the future amidst the wreckage.
President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva extended his sympathies to the affected individuals, expressing solidarity with the victims of the tornado in Rio Bonito do Iguaçu and Guarapuava, Paraná. He assured the deployment of a team led by Minister Gleisi Hoffmann, comprising health and regional integration and development ministries, to provide support and aid to the impacted region. Additionally, National Civil Defense specialists and healthcare professionals were mobilized to assist the affected population and aid in rescue efforts, emphasizing continued support for the people of Paraná.
