Monster Tornado Devastates Paraná, Brazil
Six people lost their lives and over 700 were injured when a powerful tornado swept through the southern Brazilian state of Paraná. State officials describe this as one of the most intense weather events ever recorded in the region.
Tornado Intensity Upgraded
Following an assessment of the destruction and meteorological data, the state climate agency Simepar upgraded the tornado from category F2 to F3. Meteorologist Lizandro Jacobsen told Bloomberg,
“In terms of magnitude, it was certainly the most devastating tornado we’ve ever had in the state of Paraná.”
Damage and Impact
Photographs from Paraná’s Civil Defense revealed extensive damage in Rio Bonito do Iguaçu, where homes, vehicles, and roads were severely affected. The state government reported that more than 90% of the town was impacted.
- Efforts are ongoing to restore water and electricity services.
- Authorities have declared a state of emergency in multiple cities due to heavy November rains.
Severe Weather Context
The US National Weather Service classifies an F3 tornado as severe, with wind speeds between 158 and 206 mph (254 to 331 km/h). Southern Brazil, a major producer of grains and meat, is experiencing a rise in such extreme weather events.
Author’s summary: A rare and devastating F3 tornado hit Paraná, causing widespread damage, multiple fatalities, and over 700 injuries, highlighting the increasing severity of weather events in southern Brazil.