NWS survey shows 1.7-mile-wide EF3 tornado hit Blanco

A powerful storm, now confirmed as an EF-3 tornado, carved a destructive path across southern Pittsburg County earlier this month.

The National Weather Service released its final damage assessment Tuesday evening, confirming the tornado reached winds up to 140 mph as it moved through the Blanco area on May 19. 

This update follows several days of complex field surveys across Pittsburg and western Latimer counties.

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1. 5/20/2025: Tornado damage in Blanco, Pittsburg County, leaves widespread destruction

Tornado Strength and Path

According to the NWS, the tornado touched down southwest of Pittsburg and tracked northeast for 16 miles. It peaked at a massive 1.7 miles in width and reached EF-3 intensity, defined by estimated winds of 140 MPH.

The most severe damage was found about 2.5 miles east of Blanco, where trees were stripped of bark and most were snapped or uprooted in a heavily forested area.

Destruction Near Pittsburg Lake and Blanco

The tornado intensified as it approached Pittsburg Lake, causing EF-1 to EF-2 damage to homes and trees. Wind speeds in that area ranged from 95 to 115 mph. Power poles were snapped and structural damage worsened as the storm neared Blanco.

As the tornado moved past the town, it produced the most severe EF-3 damage before weakening and dissipating east-northeast of Blanco.

Confirmed Injury, No Fatalities

Despite the storm’s intensity, only one injury was reported. There were no confirmed fatalities, according to the final report released by the NWS.

Survey Complications and Tornado Origin

Survey teams faced challenges due to the storm's complexity and potential multiple tornadoes. The NWS noted signs of a possible "handoff process," where one tornado dissipates and another forms nearby.

What’s Next

While survey work has now concluded, cleanup and recovery efforts continue in affected areas. Officials have not released a monetary damage estimate. Residents and local leaders are now focusing on rebuilding.

LIVE COVERAGE:

1. FROM 5/19/2025: https://www.facebook.com/NewsOn6/videos/1393014792042463

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1. Osage SkyNews 6 surveys destruction from severe weather