Monster Tornado Devastates Paraná, Brazil
A powerful tornado struck the southern Brazilian state of Paraná, resulting in six fatalities and over 700 injured. State officials described it as one of the most severe weather events ever experienced in the region.
Damage Assessment and Tornado Category Upgrade
Following analysis of the destruction and weather data, Paraná’s climate monitoring 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.
Impact on Rio Bonito do Iguaçu
Photos from Paraná’s Civil Defense reveal extensive damage in the municipality of Rio Bonito do Iguaçu, with homes, vehicles, and roads badly affected. More than 90% of the town experienced damage, and emergency crews are working to restore electricity and water services.
Tornado Classification and Regional Context
- According to the US National Weather Service, an F3 tornado is classified as “severe," with wind speeds between 158 and 206 mph (254 to 331 km/h).
- Severe weather events have become increasingly frequent in southern Brazil, an important region for grain and meat production.
- Parts of Paraná have faced heavy rains in November, leading to states of emergency in several cities.
Authorities continue efforts to assist affected communities and manage ongoing emergency responses.
Summary: A rare and powerful F3 tornado hit Paraná, Brazil, causing severe destruction, six deaths, and hundreds injured, marking it as one of the state’s worst natural disasters.