Tornadoes, nature’s whirling maelstroms, remain one of the most unpredictable and destructive natural forces. Just this month we saw several tornadoes touch down in Florida during Hurricane Milton. Tornadoes can be predicted to some extent, but their precise location, timing, and intensity remain challenging to forecast with high accuracy. This is what makes them scary and deadly!
While these violent storms can occur anywhere in the world, certain regions are more prone to their wrath. This article highlights some historical tornadoes that have left an indelible mark on the global landscape, showcasing the devastating power these phenomena can unleash. These storms are not all recent either – you may be surprised to know that some of the deadliest tornadoes are from hundreds of years ago!
El Reno Tornado (2013) – USA
The El Reno tornado, which struck Oklahoma on May 31, 2013, is known for being the widest tornado ever recorded, stretching over 2.6 miles across. While only eight people lost their lives, it was infamous for its unpredictability and sudden shifts in direction.
This tornado also claimed the lives of several storm chasers, emphasizing the dangerous nature of even experienced weather tracking. Its immense size and wind speeds reaching over 300 mph made it a once-in-a-lifetime storm.
Daulatpur–Saturia Tornado (1989) – Bangladesh
On April 26, 1989, Bangladesh experienced the deadliest tornado in recorded history. The Daulatpur–Saturia tornado killed approximately 1,300 people and destroyed countless homes across the region.
Entire villages were wiped off the map, leaving thousands injured and displaced. This tornado remains a grim reminder of the devastating impact tornadoes can have in densely populated areas.
Brahmanbaria Tornado (2013) – Bangladesh
In March 2013, Bangladesh was once again hit by a deadly tornado in Brahmanbaria, claiming the lives of at least 31 people. Hundreds more were injured as the storm tore through communities, destroying over 500 homes.
The Brahmanbaria tornado left a lasting impact on the region, highlighting how vulnerable parts of Bangladesh remain to violent weather events.
Tupelo Tornado (2014) – USA
On April 28, 2014, an EF4 tornado struck Tupelo, Mississippi, killing 23 people. The tornado carved a destructive path through the city, flattening homes, businesses, and even schools.
Tupelo’s residents experienced the full force of this storm, with millions of dollars in damages. Although the aftermath was devastating, the rapid response from emergency services helped mitigate further loss of life.
Oklahoma City Tornado (2015) – USA
Oklahoma City was struck by an EF3 tornado on May 6, 2015, resulting in 15 deaths and dozens of injuries. Tornadoes are a common occurrence in Oklahoma, but this one was particularly damaging as it cut through a heavily populated area.
The storm’s intensity, combined with its path through residential neighborhoods, made this a deadly event. Many homes and businesses were destroyed, leading to a costly recovery effort.
Sicily Twin Tornadoes (1851) – Italy
Not only was Sicily hit with one tornado, but they actually had a second touch down with it. The 1851 weather experience swept through western Sicily which was part of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, now known as Italy.
There is not official number of victims, but it has been said over 500 people lost their lives. It is considered one of the deadliest European tornadoes.
Grand Harbour of Malta Tornado (1551 or 1556) – Malta
There is conflicting information about the dates of the tornado, but there is no confusion about the fact it did occur. The Grand Harbour of Malta tornado killed at least 600 people. What started as a waterspout turned into a full fledged tornado that capsized ships which is responsible for a large portion of the deaths that occurred.
Peshawar Tornado (2015) – Pakistan
In April 2015, a powerful tornado swept through Peshawar, Pakistan, killing at least 44 people and injuring hundreds more. The storm caused significant destruction in rural areas, flattening homes and uprooting trees.
This tornado caught many people off guard due to the rarity of such storms in the region. The aftermath saw entire communities in need of aid and reconstruction efforts.
Dolores Tornado (2016) – Uruguay
On April 15, 2016, an EF3 tornado hit the town of Dolores in Uruguay, killing five people and leaving hundreds injured. This was one of the most severe tornadoes to ever hit Uruguay.
Entire sections of the town were destroyed in a matter of minutes, as homes, cars, and infrastructure were wiped out. It took months for the community to recover from the disaster.
Revere Tornado (2014) – USA
In July 2014, an EF2 tornado struck Revere, Massachusetts, marking the first tornado in the area in over 60 years. Although no lives were lost, it caused significant damage to homes and businesses.
This tornado took many by surprise, as the northeastern U.S. is not typically known for tornado activity. The storm’s sudden appearance emphasized the importance of preparedness even in areas with infrequent tornadoes.
Jarrell Tornado (1997) – USA
The EF5 Jarrell tornado that hit Texas on May 27, 1997, was one of the most destructive tornadoes in U.S. history. It completely wiped out the town of Jarrell, killing 27 people.
The tornado’s extreme intensity and slow movement allowed it to obliterate everything in its path, including houses, vehicles, and farmland. Its impact is still remembered in the community decades later.
Tri-State Tornado (1925) – USA
The Tri-State tornado of March 18, 1925, remains the deadliest in U.S. history, killing 695 people. This tornado cut across Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana, traveling over 200 miles.
The storm decimated towns along its path and caused widespread destruction. While technology has advanced significantly since 1925, the sheer scale of the Tri-State tornado’s destruction is still unparalleled.
Joplin Tornado (2011) – USA
On May 22, 2011, the Joplin tornado struck Missouri, resulting in 158 deaths and making it one of the deadliest tornadoes in modern U.S. history. The tornado flattened entire neighborhoods, including schools and hospitals.
The Joplin tornado caused billions of dollars in damages and required extensive rebuilding efforts. The storm’s legacy includes improved tornado preparedness and response plans across the U.S.
Tuscaloosa-Birmingham Tornado (2011) – USA
Part of the historic April 2011 tornado outbreak, the Tuscaloosa-Birmingham tornado killed 64 people. This EF4 tornado devastated large sections of Alabama, leveling homes and businesses in its path.
The scale of destruction was immense, and the tornado became a turning point for emergency preparedness in the region. Rebuilding efforts took years, and many communities were forever changed by the event.
Deadliest Hurricanes From Around The World
Hurricanes, tornadoes, and cyclones are among the most powerful and destructive forces of nature. These massive storms can bring devastating winds, flooding, and destruction to anything in their path. Whether you live in a hurricane-prone area or just want to stay informed, it’s essential to understand the impact these storms can have. Check out some of the deadliest hurricanes the world has seen.
How To Make Sure You Are Prepping For The Right Situations
Prepping for emergencies is important, but how do you prioritize which ones you are at most risk of? We have created an outline to help you determine which emergencies you should prepare for based on a variety of factors. Don’t waste time and money preparing for events you may not ever have to deal with!
