Emergency: Tornado Damage at Pardis Shelter
On February 11, 2026, a severe tornado struck the Sofian region on the outskirts of Tabriz, directly impacting Pardis Shelter.
Within minutes, multiple kennel structures were destroyed, roofing systems were torn away, and sections of the veterinary hospital were breached by airborne metal panels.
What Happened
Large corrugated steel sheets were lifted from kennel roofs and thrown across the property. Several kennel roofing systems failed, and significant portions of fencing were damaged or displaced. Perimeter mesh fencing was twisted and flattened, leaving open boundary gaps.
Inside the veterinary hospital, the damage was severe:
• Exterior masonry walls partially failed
• A large opening formed where the entrance wall and window structure collapsed
• Ceiling panels fell across treatment areas
• Glass doors and windows shattered
• Electrical wiring and ventilation ducts were exposed
• Insulation, roofing material, and concrete debris were driven into interior rooms
Gas heating units were dislodged and will require professional inspection before safe use can resume.
Shelter staff immediately began clearing debris by hand while working to secure frightened animals.
Animal Impact
Approximately 3,000 dogs remain under the care of Pardis Shelter.
Several kennel structures were damaged or rendered unusable. Dogs housed in compromised enclosures were immediately relocated into intact kennels, resulting in significant overcrowding.
The damaged sections included areas designated for disabled dogs, requiring urgent relocation of animals with mobility challenges.
During the storm, some animals were exposed to rainwater and leaking interior areas. In the hours that followed, staff worked continuously to dry interior spaces and move dogs into the safest available enclosures. Animals now have dry resting areas while structural repairs are pending.
Although the animals experienced extreme stress during the event, they are currently being fed, monitored, and cleaned according to regular shelter protocols. Kennels are being maintained daily despite infrastructure limitations.
Medically fragile and sick dogs continue to receive care. Intravenous fluids and medications are being administered in the portion of the hospital determined to be structurally stable. Veterinary treatment has not been interrupted.
On the day following the tornado, a dog with a fractured spine was brought to the shelter. Despite the ongoing structural damage, loss of utilities, and active debris removal inside the hospital, the shelter accepted him for care. Although he was visibly frightened by the sounds of reconstruction and broken glass being cleared, staff remained beside him, provided stabilization, and ensured he received essential medical support.
Current Status
The shelter remains operational, but only under emergency conditions.
Temporary barriers have been placed along damaged fencing lines to prevent escapes. These measures are unstable and cannot withstand additional severe weather.
Critical repairs are urgently needed, including:
Replacement of collapsed roofing systems
Reconstruction of kennels and perimeter fencing
Restoration of hospital walls and sealed access points
Electrical and heating system inspection and repair
Without timely structural reconstruction, the shelter’s ability to safely operate will be at serious risk.
Despite the devastation, Pardis Shelter remains committed to protecting every animal in its care. The staff has worked tirelessly since the storm, clearing debris and stabilizing damaged areas with whatever resources they have. Recovery will take time, but the mission remains unchanged: every life matters, and no animal will be abandoned.
How You Can Help
Pardis Shelter is currently in emergency stabilization mode. Support will go directly toward structural repairs, medical supplies, and restoring safe housing capacity for the animals.
In moments like this, compassion becomes action — and action restores protection, dignity, and hope.
