Benton, LA – A brief but intense EF1 tornado touched down near Bentley on Monday morning, snapping trees and damaging structures as it carved a path through central Louisiana. Just minutes later, 100 mph straight-line winds ripped through nearby Pollock, causing additional damage along U.S. Highway 165.
According to the National Weather Service in Shreveport, the tornado struck between 11:03 and 11:08 a.m. CDT on May 26, tracking 3.6 miles with a peak width of 280 yards. The straight-line wind event in Pollock occurred from 11:13 to 11:14 a.m., with a more localized impact path of just 0.27 miles and a maximum width of 40 yards.
No injuries or fatalities were reported, but damage assessments continue across Grant Parish. The EF1 tornado snapped trees and damaged outbuildings near Rock Hill Road and Highway 8, while the thunderstorm winds in Pollock downed trees and power lines just south of town, briefly impacting traffic on Highway 165.
Residents are urged to stay weather-aware this week, as more storms could develop. Emergency managers recommend reviewing tornado safety plans and securing outdoor items ahead of additional severe weather risks.
