A devastating tornado, with wind speeds reaching 155mph, has caused extensive destruction in Brazil, resulting in the loss of six lives and leaving over 750 individuals injured. The powerful tornado swept through Parana, a southern state, on Friday afternoon, causing significant damage to 90% of the city.
Images from the affected city depict buildings with roofs ripped off, fallen trees, and twisted signs and poles. The tornado also demolished numerous homes, prompting the government to declare a state of emergency in the area.
Following the tornado, one person was reported missing, according to Brazilian outlet g1. Among the fatalities were five adults and a 14-year-old girl. The victims included three men aged 49, 57, and 83, two women aged 47 and 14 from Rio Bonito do Iguaçu, and a 53-year-old man from Guarapuava.
One of the victims, 14-year-old Julia Kwapis, was tragically swept away by the strong winds while at a friend’s house. Her family, who had been searching for her, received news that she was hospitalized in a neighboring city the following morning. Julia was scheduled to receive her Catholic Confirmation on the day of the tornado, as she excitedly shared with her father in a recent audio message.
In response to the disaster, hundreds of individuals, including children and pregnant women, were transferred to hospitals and on-site medical units for treatment. At least 10 individuals required surgery, with nine remaining in critical condition.
Local shop owner Roselei Dalcandon described the storm as devastating, reducing her business and the town to rubble, leaving the community uncertain about the future.
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva expressed his condolences to the affected families and solidarity with the victims, pledging government support for the rescue and aid efforts in the impacted region.