Brazil declares state of emergency after deadly tornado strikes Southern region: Video
The city of Rio Bonito, in Brazil’s southern state of Paraná, remains under a state of emergency after a powerful tornado swept through the region on Friday, leaving at least six people dead and hundreds injured, according to local authorities.
Footage released over the weekend revealed widespread devastation: uprooted trees, destroyed homes, overturned vehicles, and streets covered in debris. The storm, preliminarily rated as an F3 tornado with winds reaching up to 250 km/h, caused severe damage across Paraná, near the Argentine border. Officials estimate that up to 90 per cent of the affected area suffered structural or infrastructure losses, leading to a formal declaration of calamity.
Rio Bonito was the hardest-hit city, accounting for five of the reported deaths, while another fatality occurred in the rural zone of Guarapuava. In response, the state government has declared three days of official mourning as rescue teams and emergency services continue recovery efforts.
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva expressed his condolences to the victims’ families through his official X account and reaffirmed the federal government’s support for local authorities. Meanwhile, regional officials have urged residents to remain in safe locations and comply with emergency instructions, as humanitarian aid and clean-up operations continue. A full assessment of damages and a partial reconstruction plan are expected to be announced soon.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
