The smallest tornado ever recorded occurred in the town of Lubbock, Texas on May 28, 2015. Measuring in at only 50 yards wide, this tornado was classified as an EF0, the weakest category of tornado on the Enhanced Fujita Scale.
This tornado was part of a larger severe weather system that moved through the area and produced several tornadoes. The National Weather Service in Lubbock reported that the storm produced one EF0, one EF1, and one EF2 tornado in the area.
The EF0 tornado, the smallest tornado ever recorded, was short lived. It touched down in a commercial area and caused minor damage, mostly to power lines and foliage. The tornado remained on the ground for only a few minutes before dissipating.
The Enhanced Fujita Scale is used to rate the intensity of tornadoes based on the type and amount of damage inflicted. An EF0 tornado, such as the one in Lubbock, usually produces wind speeds of up to 85 mph and can cause minor damage, such as broken windows and downed power lines.
While the tornado in Lubbock was the smallest tornado ever recorded, it is not the most powerful. That title belongs to the tornado that struck El Reno, Oklahoma in 2013, which was classified as an EF5 with wind speeds reaching up to 302 mph.
The effects of tornadoes can be devastating, and it is important to be prepared in the event of a tornado. Knowing the signs of an impending tornado can be helpful in avoiding potential harm. Signs of a tornado include strong winds, dark skies, and a loud roar, similar to that of a freight train. It is also important to have an emergency plan in place and to know where the closest shelters are in case of a tornado.
No matter the size, all tornadoes should be taken seriously and all safety precautions should be followed. Knowing the signs and taking the appropriate steps can help keep individuals and their families safe in the event of a tornado.
