Wisconsin experienced a highly unusual occurrence when tornadoes were observed for the first time ever in February, despite it being synonymous with freezing weather. On February 8th, Rock County was hit by the Wisconsin Tornado that wreaked havoc and resulted in damage worth over $2.4 million as per authoritative sources.
In addition to causing property damage, the tornadoes caused a loss of cattle and had a significant impact on several homes in the region. Rock County Emergency Management Director Kevin Wernet stated that while estimates were made for damages incurred, they did not factor in agricultural losses like silo or barn destruction as well as equipment damage.
The reports revealed that Porter town had experienced the most significant loss with damages surpassing $2 million, as opposed to Fulton town which reported only over $320,000 in losses. The impact of these tornadoes was severe resulting in two homes being entirely destroyed while ten others suffered extensive damage.
An F2 tornado, considered a “high end” category due to its substantial power with winds reaching up to 135 mph (220 kph), was present near Evansville. The tornado remained on the ground for an impressive duration of 36 minutes and covered a distance measuring 24.5 miles (39.4 kilometers). At its widest point, this intense tornado measured approximately 500 yards (457.2 meters) across at maximum capacity.
A second tornado in the vicinity of Juda was categorized as an F1 with maximum winds of 110 mph (177 kph). It remained active for 14 minutes, traveled a distance of 8.35 miles (13.4 kilometers), and reached its widest point at 50 yards (45.7 meters).
Top Tips to Turn your Side Hustle into a Success
Record-keeping in Wisconsin since 1950 has never documented such severe weather occurrences in February until these tornadoes.
