Experts Confirm First EF5 Tornado in US in Over a Decade
Experts have confirmed the occurrence of the first EF5 tornado in the United States in over a decade. This rare and devastating tornado struck eastern North Dakota in June, resulting in three fatalities. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Grand Forks upgraded the tornado’s classification on a recent Monday, confirming its wind speeds exceeded 210 mph.
Understanding the EF5 Tornado in North Dakota
EF5 tornadoes are the most powerful on the Enhanced Fujita Scale, necessitating wind speeds of at least 201 mph. These severe weather events are exceedingly rare; since 1950, only 60 EF5 tornadoes have been recorded nationwide, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Storm Prediction Center.
Tornado Path and Impact
The violent tornado began near Enderlin, North Dakota, approximately 40 miles southwest of Fargo. It maintained its destructive path for nearly 20 minutes, traveling about 12 miles before dissipating near Alice.
- Total duration: 20 minutes
- Travel distance: 12 miles
- Initial ranking: EF3 (160 mph winds)
The tornado’s upgrade to EF5 was largely due to its catastrophic damage, confirmed through investigations by meteorologists. Notably, the tornado derailed a freight train, throwing an empty train car nearly 500 feet. In addition, several loaded grain hopper cars were overturned, and significant destruction occurred to trees and farmland.
Comparative Historical Context
The last recorded EF5 tornado in the U.S. occurred in Moore, Oklahoma, on May 20, 2013, claiming 24 lives and resulting in over 200 injuries. The severity of that tornado left the city in ruins, highlighting the intense danger posed by these powerful storms.
The EF5 Tornado “Drought” Debate
Despite the recent tornado, some scientists express concerns about the decade-long absence of EF5 ratings. A study released in August explored this phenomenon, suggesting that the lack of high-end ratings might reflect an imbalance in the tornado damage assessment scale rather than a decrease in tornado intensity.
Adjustments made to the Enhanced Fujita Scale in 2007 may have influenced tornado ratings. For instance, a tornado that destroys a single-family home might be classified as an EF4 with 200 mph winds, whereas, under the previous scale configuration, similar damage would have been rated at EF5.
This ongoing debate about tornado classifications will likely persist, as researchers strive to understand these natural phenomena better. With the recent confirmation of the EF5 tornado, an important chapter in tornado history has begun anew.
