A powerful tornado devastated the town of Rio Bonito do Iguaçu in southern Brazil, resulting in at least six fatalities and hundreds of injuries, with widespread destruction described as a war zone.
The tornado hit late on Friday, November 8, 2025, in the state of Paraná, with winds reaching up to 250 kilometers per hour. It lasted less than a minute but caused catastrophic damage to the town of Rio Bonito do Iguaçu, home to approximately 14,000 people. Aerial drone footage reveals scores of buildings without roofs and entire areas flattened, while surrounding farmland remained largely untouched. Local authorities confirmed that about 90 percent of the town was destroyed, prompting a state of calamity declaration.
The human toll includes at least six confirmed deaths, with five from Rio Bonito do Iguaçu and one from the nearby town of Guarapuava. Additionally, over 750 people were injured, with ten requiring surgery and nine in serious condition as of Saturday. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, and there are concerns that the casualty numbers could rise as more areas are assessed.
Fernando Schunig, head of the Paraná Civil Defence agency, described the scene as a “war zone,” emphasizing the lethal impact when such events strike urban areas. Residents shared harrowing accounts, such as Gilberto Brecailo, who lost his mechanic shop, and Marileia Chagas, who was thrown by the winds but survived with her family. These personal stories highlight the sudden and devastating nature of the disaster.
In response, State Governor Carlos Massa Ratinho Jr declared three days of mourning, and the federal government, led by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, has dispatched emergency assistance. Supplies including food, hygiene products, tarps, and mattresses are being provided to affected residents. The coordination between local and national authorities aims to support recovery efforts and address immediate needs.
The tornado occurred as Brazil prepares to host the United Nations Climate Change Conference COP30 in Belém, drawing attention to the potential links between climate change and extreme weather events. Experts note that warmer temperatures and increased atmospheric instability can contribute to more frequent and intense tornadoes. This event underscores the urgent need for climate adaptation and disaster preparedness in vulnerable regions.
Recovery efforts are underway, with heavy machinery clearing debris and medical teams treating the injured. The long-term implications include rebuilding the town and supporting displaced families, which will require sustained national and international aid. The disaster serves as a stark reminder of the destructive power of natural forces and the importance of resilient infrastructure.
