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North Dakota Tornado Reclassified as EF5: First in US Since 2013

8 months agoUS
North Dakota Tornado Reclassified as EF5: First in US Since 2013Source: kare11.com
The National Weather Service has upgraded the Enderlin, North Dakota tornado that occurred on June 20, 2025, to an EF5 rating. This is the first EF5 tornado in the United States since May 2013, when a devastating tornado struck Moore, Oklahoma. The reclassification comes after an extensive review of the damage and wind speed estimates.

Key Insights

The Enderlin tornado reached estimated peak winds of at least 210 mph.

This is the first EF5 tornado in the US since the Moore, Oklahoma tornado in 2013.

The tornado claimed the lives of three people.

Extensive damage was observed, including toppled grain hopper cars and lofted tanker cars.

The tornado path was just over 12 miles long.

In-Depth Analysis

The EF5 rating is the highest classification on the Enhanced Fujita Scale, indicating winds exceeding 200 mph. The upgrade was based on forensic damage wind speed estimates, including the displacement of fully-loaded grain hopper cars and an empty tanker car tossed nearly 500 feet. Reanalysis of tree damage near the Maple River also supported the EF5 classification. The previous rating was EF-4, with winds estimated at 180 mph. This event highlights the potential for extreme weather events and the importance of accurate weather monitoring and reporting.

FAQs

Q: What is an EF5 tornado?

An EF5 tornado is the highest classification on the Enhanced Fujita Scale, with wind speeds exceeding 200 mph.

Q: When was the last EF5 tornado in the US before this one?

The last EF5 tornado in the US was in Moore, Oklahoma, in May 2013.

Q: How long was the path of the Enderlin tornado?

The tornado traveled just over 12 miles.

Key Takeaways

Be aware of the potential for severe weather in your area.

Stay informed about weather alerts and warnings.

Understand the Enhanced Fujita Scale and what the different ratings mean.

Know the safety procedures to follow in the event of a tornado.

Discussion

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