Sterling, ND – A tornado struck Steele, ND on Monday, damaging crops and train tracks just before Labor Day weekend. The EF-1 tornado touched down about one mile east of Steele at 7:53 p.m. and lasted for two minutes.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Bismarck, the tornado had wind speeds reaching 100 mph. It traveled just under a mile, knocking 40 empty train cars off the tracks and damaging oats crops. Trees also sustained heavy damage, with some uprooted near Steele.
The same storm system also caused significant damage near Sterling, ND. Winds estimated at 100 mph flattened sunflowers and pushed them east-southeast. The storm snapped 15 power poles and dislodged a large grain bin south of Sterling.
The NWS survey team completed their assessment on Wednesday, concluding that the tornado and accompanying straight-line winds caused the reported damage. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported.
As residents prepare for the upcoming Labor Day weekend, they are encouraged to remain alert to changing weather conditions. The NWS continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as necessary.
