Lincoln, Missouri – A short-lived but damaging EF-1 tornado struck northeast of Palo Pinto around 7:35 p.m. Tuesday, tearing through Benton County with 100 mph winds before dissipating just six minutes later near Lincoln.
According to the National Weather Service in Springfield, the tornado traveled 4.39 miles northeast before ending at 7:41 p.m. with strong straight-line winds approximately 3 miles north-northwest of Lincoln. No injuries were reported, but the storm uprooted trees, snapped utility poles, and damaged at least three barns.
The tornado reached a maximum width of 300 yards and left a clear swath of debris as it curled near the end of its path. Local emergency crews responded quickly to clear roads and assess structural damage along the storm’s route.
Residents in Benton County are urged to remain alert this week as more severe weather could develop in the region. Power restoration efforts are underway, and utility officials caution against approaching downed lines.
NWS officials plan to issue further updates if new damage reports or hazards emerge.
