NWS Jackson, first 2009 tornado for Smith county

Storm Impacting the Northwest U.S.; Fire Weather Conditions in Southern California; Severe Weather in the South

A Pacific storm is bringing areas of low elevation rain, moderate to heavy mountain snow, and high winds to the Northwest. Strong Santa Ana winds and very dry conditions are producing elevated to critical fire weather conditions in southern California. Isolated strong to severe thunderstorms are possible through early Wednesday morning across parts of northeast Texas into western Tennessee. Read More >

Damage Survey from Smith County

Location / Time of event: Smith County, 1/3/09 1:12-1:14 pm
Beginning Point: 4 WNW Stringer
Ending Point: 4 NW Stringer
Rating: EF1 maximum estimated wind speed at 90 mph
Path Length: 1 mile
Maximum Width: 175 yd
Fatalities: 0
Injuries: 0

Summary of Damages: Several hardwood and softwood trees uprooted and one softwood tree snapped. Three chicken houses had some of the roof blown off and one had a section that collapsed. The roofing material of the chicken houses was blown downwind for the length of the tornado. Three houses received minor damage to the roofs including shingles blown off and gutters damaged. A window was blown in at one house. Several fences were blown over and a large carport/shed was destroyed.