Springfield, MO – The National Weather Service (NWS) has confirmed two EF-3 tornadoes that impacted southern Missouri on March 14, tracking through multiple counties and leaving significant damage in their paths.
According to the NWS Springfield office, a long-track EF-3 tornado with peak winds of 165 mph started near Rover in Oregon County and traveled 54 miles northeast through Shannon, Carter, and Reynolds counties before lifting. The tornado uprooted thousands of trees, pushed two homes off their foundations in Oregon County, and collapsed a pair of high-voltage transmission line metal support poles.
A second EF-3 tornado was surveyed west and southwest of Alton. This tornado, with peak winds of 145 mph, traveled 18.78 miles before lifting northeast of Alton. Damage assessments indicate trees and outbuildings were the primary victims, though a few homes, including one on County Road 402, sustained EF-3 level destruction.
Despite the strength of both tornadoes, no injuries or fatalities were reported. NWS meteorologists continue to analyze additional damage across Howell and Pulaski/Phelps counties, with further updates expected in the coming days.
Residents in affected areas are urged to report any unassessed damage to local authorities and stay informed about future severe weather risks.
