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First Alert Weather in Detail: Moore, Oklahoma – the last time there was an EF 5 tornado

We generally know the intensity a tornado can unleash. Of course, that’s the last thing we want to see in our neighborhoods. Recently, people commemorated the 11th anniversary of the Moore, Oklahoma tornado. This was the last time we had a tornado of this strength in the United States. It was truly notable for its incredible intensity, devastation, and unfortunately, the loss of life in this particular community. This tornado leveled many areas, and pictures of the aftermath show the horror in Moore, Oklahoma. There really is nowhere to hide from something of this intensity. And to survive, you have to get out of the way or go underground. There have even been reports of asphalt being ripped off the ground.

The town of Moore is just outside of Oklahoma City and is considered a suburb, located about 10 miles south. The state of Oklahoma is familiar with tornadoes, as they are in the heart of “Tornado Alley.” The Enhanced Fujita Scale (EF Scale) ranges from zero to five, with zero being the lowest intensity and five being the highest. This particular tornado was rated as an EF-5, with estimated wind speeds of over 210 miles per hour. Unfortunately, there were 24 fatalities and 300 homes and buildings were destroyed.

How does a tornado of this intensity form? Many factors are needed, but first we need a thunderstorm with strong winds at the lower level and what is known as a wind shear at the upper level. This shear is caused by significant differences in speed and direction. This creates a rotating column of air that is eventually pulled upwards by the updraft of the thunderstorm. This is a mesocyclone, which usually develops into a supercell thunderstorm.

Fortunately, New York State has never reported an EF5 tornado in its 75 years of record-keeping. Let’s hope it stays that way!