Aerial view of destroyed houses after a tornado hit Rio Bonito do Iguacu, Parana state, Brazil, on Nov. 8, 2025. Parana State Government/Handout via REUTERS

A powerful tornado hit Brazil's southern state of Parana, killing six people and injuring more than 400 others Friday night, state officials said Saturday.

The tornado, which hit speeds of more than 155 mph, destroyed dozens of homes in Rio Bonito do Iguacu and Guarapuava and prompted the government to declare an emergency in the affected region.

"It destroyed everything. It destroyed the town, houses, schools. What will become of us?" Roselei Dalcandon told AFP as she stood by a pile of rubble that used to be her shop.

State officials in a statement said at least one person was missing hours after the tornado touched down. Five of the killed were adults and the sixth was a 14-year-old girl. Five of the victims were from the municipality of Rio Bonito do Iguaçu and one was from Guarapuava.

The number of people missing is expected to rise, officials said.

Gov. Carlos Massa Ratinho Jr. declared three days of mourning in the state of Parana to honor the dead.

The government said more than 750 people, including children and pregnant women, had received medical attention. Of those, at least 10 underwent surgery and nine remained in serious condition.

Civil defense officials estimated that about 90% of the town suffered some damage.

On social media, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva expressed solidarity with the victims. Members of his Cabinet announced the dispatching of emergency assistance to the area.

"We will continue supporting the Paraná population. And providing all the necessary assistance," he said.

Officials said that food, hygiene products, tarps, mattresses and several other items will be available to victims.

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