Deadly Tornado Hits Southern Brazil, Leaves Six Dead and Hundreds Injured

A powerful tornado struck Brazil’s southern state of Paraná Friday night, killing six people and injuring more than 400, state officials reported Saturday.

The tornado, with winds exceeding 155 mph, destroyed dozens of homes in Rio Bonito do Iguaçu and Guarapuava, prompting the government to declare an emergency in the affected areas.

"It destroyed everything. It destroyed the town, houses, schools. What will become of us?" said Roselei Dalcandon, standing amid the rubble of her former shop.

Officials reported that at least one person remained missing hours after the tornado touched down. Among the six fatalities, five were adults and one was a 14-year-old girl. Five victims were from Rio Bonito do Iguaçu and one from Guarapuava. Authorities expect the number of missing people could rise.

Emergency Response and Mourning

Governor Carlos Massa Ratinho Jr. declared three days of mourning across Paraná. Civil defense officials estimate that roughly 90% of Rio Bonito do Iguaçu sustained damage. More than 750 people, including children and pregnant women, received medical attention; at least 10 underwent surgery, and nine remain in serious condition.

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva expressed solidarity on social media and announced the dispatch of emergency assistance to the region.

"We will continue supporting the Paraná population and providing all the necessary assistance," he said.

Authorities are distributing food, hygiene products, tarps, mattresses, and other essential supplies to victims of the tornado.

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