Preliminary data collected by the National Weather Service has determined Tuesday’s tornado that struck Westmoreland was rated an EF-3 storm on the Enhanced Fujita Scale.
The storm descended about a mile and a half southwest of the city before carving a destructive path through residential areas. The storm boasted peak wind speeds of 140 mph, inflicting damage to homes along a 50 to 100 yard stretch.
The powerful tornado resulted in one fatality. Weather officials also say that despite the storm’s ferocity, it appeared to weaken in intensity as it crossed Highway 99, sparing the eastern side of town from additional damage.
Preliminary assessments indicate the tornado’s path extended a little over 2 and a half miles before dissipating.
