Storm damage to religious buildings in Apucarana

Following a severe storm on September 21, religious structures in Apucarana, Brazil, sustained significant damage, forcing changes to liturgical activities.

The Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Lourdes reported roof damage and water infiltration in its main nave. To ensure safety during repairs, the cathedral moved services to the Diocesan Crypt in the basement, resuming mass and adoration schedules on September 24.

As of October 6, the Catedral Basílica Menor Nossa Senhora de Lourdes is scheduled to reopen for religious services this coming Saturday. This reopening follows technical assessments and structural reports presented by Bishop Dom Carlos José de Oliveira and parish administrator Father Valdecir Ferreira. The evaluations were conducted by a team of engineers, including coordination from Professor Edson de Araújo of the University of São Paulo (USP), alongside professionals from Apucarana and Londrina.

While the storm caused significant damage, officials stated that the assessments allow for the resumption of masses, weddings, and other celebrations. The diocese intends to proceed with the reconstruction of the damaged sections following the reopening.

In a separate instance of storm impact, the Nossa Senhora do Rocio Chapel in Parque Bela Vista faced more severe structural instability. The storm caused half of the roof to collapse and compromised side walls, leading to a requirement for the demolition of approximately 600 square meters of the structure. While the front tower remained largely unaffected, the building is prohibited from use, and services have been relocated to the São Francisco Xavier Parish. Church leadership is currently conducting technical evaluations to assess the possibility of reconstruction.