Small Tornado Damages Trees, Property in Worcester

Monday, September 01, 2014

GoLocalorcester News Team

photo credit: Scott Thrasher, a Skywarn Spotter with the National Weather Service

A small tornado touching down in Worcester on Sunday night, which caused damage to local homes and vehicles, has officially been confirmed by the National Weather Service.

The tornado – which touched down near the intersection of Perry Ave and Fairfax Rd. between 8:10 pm and 8:14 pm – had wind speeds of up to 85 mph, which blew over and split many trees. These downed trees caused power outages and damage to homes and vehicles.

“Emergency Management officials from the City of Worcester have reported a severe weather incident in the Grafton Hill neighborhood, with several large trees downed and a power outage currently affecting about 150 homes,” read a statement from the City of Worcester on Sunday night. “Members of the Worcester Police Department, Worcester Fire Department, and DPW remain on scene assist residents.”

At this time, there have been no reported injuries. In addition to downed trees causing residential damage and power outages, flooding has also been reported. The tornado was labeled EF0, which is the least damaging on a scale that measures storms.