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Regional Outbreaks of Severe Weather Through Early Next Week; Early Season Heat Wave across the South

Active spring pattern across the center of our nation with several episodes of severe weather and heavy rainfall expected into next week. The potential for very large hail, long track tornadoes, severe wind gusts, frequent cloud to ground lightning strikes and flash flooding are in the outlook. Furthermore, dangerous early season heat wave continues for the Gulf Coast states into early next week. Read More >

Overview

Two tornadoes touched down in Ziebach County, South Dakota Tuesday evening, May 12.  Scott Olson of Brookings, South Dakota witnessed the first tornado west of Red Elm (see image to the right).  National Weather Service meteorologists confirmed a second tornado occurred after conducting a damage survey the following day.

Based on observed damage, the second tornado touched down about five miles west of Dupree and traveled eight miles, with damage ending about three miles northeast of Dupree.  Damage included several barns and grain bins, semi-trailers, small mobile homes, and a toppled communications tower.  Based on the type of damage, winds were estimated between 100 and 110 mph, giving the second tornado a rating of EF1 on a scale of EF0 to EF5 of the Enhanced Fujita Scale

First tornado west of Red Elm around 528 pm MDT.  No damage was reported with this tornado. Photo by Scott Olson.
First tornado west of Red Elm around 528 pm MDT. No damage was reported with this tornado.
Photo by Scott Olson
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