Huntsville, AL – Three EF-1 tornadoes struck northwest Alabama Friday night, cutting across Sheffield, Tuscumbia, and Aqua Vista in a fast-moving severe weather outbreak.
According to the National Weather Service in Huntsville, the tornadoes developed within a 40-minute span on April 5, beginning at 10:18 p.m. and ending at 10:57 p.m. Each tornado followed a distinct path along or near Highway 72, with maximum winds ranging from 90 to 105 mph.
The Tuscumbia tornado was the most impactful, injuring five people and carving a 12.45-mile path up to 280 yards wide. The Sheffield tornado traveled 8.43 miles with peak winds of 90 mph but caused no reported injuries. The Aqua Vista tornado, which touched down last, reached 95 mph winds and mirrored the 12.45-mile length of the Tuscumbia storm, though it also resulted in no injuries or fatalities.
Residents are urged to remain weather-aware, as the NWS noted that additional storm surveys could identify further damage. Officials recommend reviewing tornado safety plans and monitoring weather updates via weather.gov/hun or local alerts.
These storms are a reminder of Alabama’s vulnerability during spring severe weather season, particularly during overnight hours.
