NWS upgrades deadly June 20 Enderlin tornado to EF-5

FARGO (KVRR) – The National Weather Service says a deadly June 20 tornado that caused extensive damage to the Enderlin, North Dakota area was more powerful than originally determined.

Three people were killed. Forecasters say the tornado was an EF-5, with an estimated peak wind speed of more than 210 mph.

Tornado strength is measured with the Enhanced Fujita Scale. EF-5 twisters are the most powerful.

The National Weather Service says the analysis involved forensic damage wind speed estimates for tipping several fully-loaded grain hopper cars and lofting of tanker cars, including one empty tanker car that was tossed about 475.5 ft.

Additional high-end damage indicators that have been reexamined and adjusted include damage to the trees near the Maple River east of Enderlin and damage to a farmstead on Hwy 46. Damage at the farmstead was considered a “complete destruction” and the foundation was
swept clean.

Further analysis shows extensive tree damage throughout the entire river valley with only stubs of large branches or trunks remaining and debarking with a “sandpapering” effect.

The tornado’s path was more than 12 miles long. It was on the ground for an estimated 19 minutes.