The National Weather Service released preliminary data related to the severe weather in Castro County Friday evening.
The “Castro County Tornado Event” was ranked EF-3, with peak wind reaching 140 miles per hour.
EF Scale: The Enhanced Fujita Scale Classifies Tornadoes into the following categories. EF0...Weak......65 to 85 MPH EF1...Weak......86 to 110 MPH EF2...Strong....111 to 135 MPH EF3...Strong....136 to 165 MPH EF4...Violent...166 To 200 MPH EF5...Violent...>200 MPH
“Numerous brief tornadoes occurred as the storm moved toward the City of Dimmitt,” the NWS report said. “The absence of damage indicators across rural western Castro County precluded determination of any path or intensity estimates. Streaming video suggested that at least 5 brief tornadoes formed across western Castro county with some exhibiting multi-vortex characteristics.”
The survey was conducted on site by NWS meteorologists who used radar data, information from local law enforcement, and video from storm spotters.
Meteorologists said the storm reached portions of Parmer, Castro, Swisher, Hale, and Floyd counties over a 9-hour period.
Areas west of Dimmitt appeared to be hardest-hit, as “a metal systems building was completely destroyed.”
“We’d like to emphasize to have/practice your tornado safety plan. Two residents escaped without injury. Their home: badly damaged. #lubwx ,” NWSLubbock tweeted Saturday, following the report.
Officials noted the information was preliminary and was subject to change “pending final review” of the tornadic event.
