Storm Aftermath: Key Findings

• The National Weather Service (NWS) confirmed three tornadoes touched down across western Pennsylvania on Wednesday [[1]].
• Two EF0 tornadoes struck Butler County, while an EF1 tornado was confirmed in Washington County [[1]].
• NWS teams assessed damage in Allegheny, Washington, and Butler counties on Thursday [[1]].

Butler county: Double Tornado Impact

Two EF0 tornadoes, originating from the same storm, impacted Butler County, with surveyors noting distinct paths [[1]].

• First Tornado: Formed around 4:37 p.m. northwest of Northvue in Center Township [[1]].
• Wind Speed: Both tornadoes reached winds up to 85 mph [[1]].
• damage: The first tornado lifted a roof off a salt shed, shattering it nearby. Trees and large branches were also downed [[1]].
• Second Tornado: Impacted the West Sunbury area,breaking several large tree limbs [[1]].

Washington County: finleyville Tornado

In Washington County, the NWS confirmed an EF1 tornado, tracing its path through toppled trees in Finleyville [[1]].

• Meteorologists retraced the storm’s path to determine its duration and strength [[1]].
• The tornado’s strength was persistent based on damage in the Houston area, where it began [[1]].

NWS Perspective: Validating Tornado Activity

Matthew Kramar, a meteorologist with the NWS in Pittsburgh, emphasized the importance of confirming tornado activity for public safety [[1]].

We can confirm that this was tornadic, but we have not really evaluated where the start of the path was yet.
Matthew Kramar, NWS Pittsburgh

Evidence of the tornado included two parallel trees taken down and flattened grass, indicating intense winds [[1]].

We’re going to walk the 15 miles back, weaving in and out of where the rotation was on radar and trying to identify whether there are trees down or any structural damage that might have not been reported to us.
Matthew Kramar, NWS Pittsburgh

Kramar highlighted the critical need for accurate tornado confirmations [[1]].

The more tornado warnings without an actual tornado, the more potential there is to diminish thier impact to the public. People might not want to take action to protect themselves.So knowing that a tornado actually happened is notable for us to be able to validate that what we see on radar actually happened.
Matthew Kramar, NWS Pittsburgh

FAQ: Tornadoes

What is an EF0 tornado?

An EF0 tornado is the weakest category on the Enhanced Fujita Scale, with wind speeds between 65 and 85 mph.

What should I do during a tornado warning?

Seek shelter immediately in a basement, storm cellar, or interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building.

Where can I find more information about storm events?

The NOAA Storm Events Database contains records of storms and other significant weather phenomena [[2]].

Additional Resources

• NOAA Storm Events Database: Track storm events and their impact [[2]].