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Photographer's description not available.
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Photographer |
Fred Stewart |
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Date taken |
April 3, 1974 |
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Location |
Xenia, OH (Greene County)
map |
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Event |
Wedge tornado |
Additional notes
This violent tornado tore a
devastating path across Xenia, Ohio during the Super Outbreak of 1974.
The tornado, rated F5, killed over 30 people, injured 1100, and
destroyed more than 1000 homes.
The tornado in this photo is a rare
wedge tornado, meaning it is at
least as wide as it is tall. Its massive appearance at this stage
alerted residents to its devastating intensity. However, in
earlier stages this tornado consisted of a series of vortices on the
ground without a
condensation funnel, but still produced incredible
damage. This shows how not all strong or violent tornadoes look
like the massive twister pictured here. While there is
little correlation between a tornado's appearance and its strength, it
is generally safe to assume that most wedge tornadoes have the potential
to produce strong or violent damage.
Related NWS Product:
Tornado Warning
Safety Note: If you see a large tornado on the ground, take cover
immediately! Taking photos or video in this situation is very
dangerous, and you are losing vital time to protect yourself. Even
if the tornado appears to be moving away from you, nearby downdrafts and
inflow can strike without notice, and can reach speeds in excess of 80
mph. These strong winds are often blowing toward the tornado, and
may drag objects into the tornado itself.
Be aware that clearly visible tornadoes such as this one are uncommon in
the Ohio Valley. Many (if not most) tornadoes in this part of the
country are rain-wrapped and are difficult or impossible to see.
If a tornado warning is issued, do not stand outside expecting to see a
tornado. You need to be taking shelter.
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Storm Spotters: How to report this?
Learn more about the 1974 Super Outbreak |
What's going on
in this picture?
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www.nws.noaa.gov 
