Devastating Tornado Strikes Rio Bonito do Iguaçu, Brazil

On November 7, 2025, a powerful tornado struck the municipality of Rio Bonito do Iguaçu in Paraná, Brazil, resulting in six fatalities, including a 14-year-old girl, and injuring over 400 individuals. The tornado, with wind speeds exceeding 250 km/h (155 mph), caused widespread destruction, leaving approximately 1,000 residents displaced.

The tornado formed and impacted Rio Bonito do Iguaçu between 5:30 p.m. and 5:40 p.m. local time, lasting approximately 10 minutes. The Paraná Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring System (Simepar) reported wind speeds between 180 km/h (111 mph) and 250 km/h (155 mph). Simepar initially classified the tornado as an F3 on the Fujita scale, while other meteorological agencies, including MetSul Meteorologia and PREVOTS, rated it as an F4, indicating a more severe intensity.

The tornado caused extensive damage to the town's infrastructure, with approximately 90% of structures damaged or destroyed, including homes, schools, and public buildings. Governor Carlos Massa Ratinho Jr. declared a state of emergency and three days of mourning for the victims. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva expressed solidarity with the victims and dispatched emergency assistance, including food, hygiene products, tarps, and mattresses, to support those affected.

The tornado was part of a supercell thunderstorm that developed in the region, influenced by a complex synoptic system involving an extratropical cyclone and a cold front. The tornado traveled approximately 40 km, with a width estimated between 800 to 1,000 meters, causing extensive damage along its path.

This event is among the most intense tornadoes recorded globally in 2025 and is considered one of the most severe ever documented in Paraná, Brazil. The destruction of homes, schools, and infrastructure has left a significant portion of the population without shelter and essential services, necessitating extensive relief and reconstruction efforts. Initial estimates suggest losses in the tens of millions of reais, though exact figures are pending official assessment.

The devastating tornado that struck Rio Bonito do Iguaçu serves as a stark reminder of the destructive power of nature and the importance of preparedness and resilience. As the community begins the arduous process of rebuilding, the support from both governmental agencies and fellow citizens will be crucial in restoring normalcy and ensuring future safety.