Monster Tornado Devastates Parana, Brazil
At least six people have died and more than 700 sustained injuries after a powerful tornado tore through the southern Brazilian state of Parana. Officials described it as one of the most extreme weather events in the region's history.
Extreme Weather Classification
Following a detailed assessment of the destruction, the state climate agency Simepar upgraded the tornado from category F2 to F3.
“In terms of magnitude, it was certainly the most devastating tornado we’ve ever had in the state of Parana,” said Simepar meteorologist Lizandro Jacobsen, quoted by Bloomberg.
Widespread Damage
Photos released by the Paraná Civil Defense revealed massive damage in the municipality of Rio Bonito do Iguaçu, where homes, vehicles, and roads were left in ruins. Officials reported that more than 90% of the city was affected as emergency crews worked to restore water and power.
Weather Details and Broader Context
The U.S. National Weather Service defines an F3 tornado as “severe,” with wind speeds between 158 and 206 miles per hour (254–331 kilometers per hour). Extreme weather incidents have become increasingly frequent in southern Brazil, a key agricultural hub known for grain and meat production. Persistent heavy rains in November forced many municipalities in Parana to declare a state of emergency.
Author’s summary: A rare F3 tornado ravaged Parana, killing six and injuring hundreds, underscoring the intensifying pattern of severe weather across southern Brazil.