San Juan County, UT – Two tornadoes touched down during a severe thunderstorm in southeast Utah on Saturday, September 13, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Grand Junction, CO.
The first tornado developed around 12:30 p.m. north of Montezuma Creek. Officials said it was short-lived, lasting only about 15 minutes. Local residents captured video that confirmed the event, but its intensity could not be rated.
Just minutes later, a second, more powerful tornado formed in nearly the same location. According to the NWS, the EF-2 twister began around 12:58 p.m. and remained on the ground for nearly 50 minutes before dissipating at 1:50 p.m. Preliminary surveys estimated peak winds of 120 mph and a path length of one mile.
Local law enforcement, emergency managers, and residents documented the EF-2 tornado extensively, with dramatic photos and videos showing the funnel cloud hovering over the desert landscape. Despite its strength, no injuries, deaths, or significant damage were reported. Officials noted the tornado remained mostly stationary in a remote area throughout its lifespan.
The entire severe weather event lasted about 1 hour and 20 minutes, marking one of the rare instances of tornado activity in Utah. Tornadoes of this magnitude are unusual for the Four Corners region, where storm conditions are less favorable than in the Plains or Midwest.
The NWS emphasized that these findings remain preliminary and could be updated as additional reports are reviewed.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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