An outbreak of Pepper yellow mosaic virus (PepYMV) was observed in commercial fields of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) 'Alambra' in the Serrana Region of Espírito Santo, Brazil. Symptoms consisted of intense yellow mosaic, weakening of the infected plants and reduction of the yield. The virus was identified by host range, electron microscopy and indirect ELISA. Field surveys indicated a rapid spread of the virus. This is the first report of natural infection of tomato by PepYMV causing severe damage to this crop in Brazil.