Worst Tornado Outbreak Ever
The worst tornado outbreak in U.S. history took place thirty years ago today. In less than 24 hours, 148 tornadoes touched down in thirteen midwestern and southern states, 330 lives were lost, and over 5000 people were injured. The town of Xenia, near Dayton, Ohio was hardest hit when a twister 3/4 of a mile wide, with winds estimated up to 318 m.p.h., ran through 4.5 miles of town. 33 people died, 1400 buildings were destroyed, and a freight train was derailed as it passed through the center of town, severly hampering rescue efforts. Five of Xenia's ten schools were virtually destroyed. Luckily the tornado struck late in the afternoon, after school let out. The Dayton Daily News (obnoxious registration required) has a special report on the storm including an awesome 8mm movie of the tornado.
April is the deadliest month for tornadoes across the country. Although tornadoes aren't very common in New York, one did touch down on Staten Island last fall. Gothamist encourages everyone to be prepared for severe weather this time of year.
