Shelby County, MO – Two brief but destructive EF-1 tornadoes struck Shelby County on Saturday evening, damaging farm buildings and uprooting trees.
According to the US National Weather Service Saint Louis, the first tornado touched down near Leonard at 6:22 p.m., staying on the ground for less than one minute. With maximum winds of 96 mph, it traveled 0.4 miles and reached a maximum width of 75 yards. The twister reportedly destroyed several farm structures before dissipating.
The second tornado formed just one minute later at 6:23 p.m., also near Leonard. Officials said it had peak winds of 99 mph and was on the ground for about three minutes. This storm covered a path of 3.1 miles and expanded to a maximum width of 100 yards, damaging more farm buildings and knocking down numerous trees.
Both tornadoes resulted in no reported injuries or fatalities, though structural damage to agricultural properties was significant. The National Weather Service has emphasized the quick-hitting nature of the storms, which left little time for residents to react.
Meteorologists continue to monitor weather patterns across the region as late-summer storms can still produce severe weather in Missouri. Residents are urged to remain alert to watches and warnings, particularly in rural areas where shelter options may be limited.
The damage assessments released Sunday highlight how even short-lived tornadoes can cause considerable destruction, particularly to exposed rural infrastructure.
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