Charleston, WV – The National Weather Service has confirmed another tornado from the July 21 severe weather outbreak, identifying an EF2 tornado that touched down in Ritchie County and produced winds estimated at 115 mph.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, the tornado occurred southeast of Smithville, beginning at 1:38 p.m. EDT on July 21 and ending five minutes later at 1:43 p.m. The tornado tracked approximately 1.8 miles with a maximum width of 800 yards.
Survey crews found the tornado traveled down a hillside, crossed Leatherbark Road, and continued up an adjacent hillside, where it snapped numerous large mature hardwood trees along the center of its path.
Officials said a home near the edge of the tornado’s track sustained minor shingle damage to its roof.
The National Weather Service reported no fatalities or injuries from the tornado.
Because of the rugged terrain and limited accessibility in the area, surveyors noted that the tornado’s exact beginning and ending points are estimated. The tornado is believed to have begun between Route 16 and Leatherbark Road and ended between Lost Ridge Road and Bean Ridge Road.
The National Weather Service thanked the property owner for providing access to the remote area, allowing survey crews to complete their damage assessment.
The EF2 rating indicates winds between 111 and 135 mph, making it a strong tornado capable of causing considerable damage, particularly to trees and structures directly in its path.
