News Summary
An EF-1 tornado struck Lincoln and Garrard Counties in Kentucky early on April 3rd, leaving a path of destruction nearly 9 miles long. Touching down near Rowland, the tornado produced peak winds of 95 mph, uprooting trees and damaging structures in the area. Remarkably, no injuries were reported despite the devastation. This event marks the first tornado in Lincoln County since 2011 and highlights the importance of staying informed during the spring severe weather season.
Lincoln, Kentucky – EF-1 Tornado Causes Damage Across Lincoln and Garrard Counties
An EF-1 tornado struck Lincoln and Garrard Counties in Kentucky in the early hours of April 3rd, creating a path of destruction nearly 9 miles long. The tornado touched down at around 3:07 a.m. EDT southwest of Rowland in Lincoln County and lifted approximately eight minutes later, just east of Preachersville in Garrard County. Wind gusts reached a peak of 95 mph, and the tornado’s maximum width was measured at 90 yards. Remarkably, no injuries or fatalities were reported as a result of the storm.
The tornado first made contact with the ground near the intersection of US Highway 27 South and KY Highway 698, situated south of Lincoln County High School. Initial damage included the collapse of a barn and significant tree damage at the touchdown area. As the tornado moved south of Rowland, additional trees were reported damaged. The storm uprooted trees near Stingy Creek Road before entering Garrard County, where it intensified.
Within the Preachersville community, the tornado wreaked havoc on structures, moving or destroying several outbuildings. Damage included twisted fence posts and scattered fencing across Highway 39. A single-family home sustained only minor roof and gutter damage, while multiple barns experienced significant destruction, including metal sheeting being torn apart. As the tornado continued its route, it began to weaken near Fall Lick Road and Drakes Creek Road, where it eventually lifted, downing large tree limbs and causing minor damage to nearby barns.
This tornado marked a significant meteorological event for the region, as it was the first tornado reported in Lincoln County since 2011 and the first for Garrard County since 2018. The incident serves as a reminder of the potential severity of lower-end tornadoes, particularly during overnight hours when residents may be less aware of weather developments.
As spring approaches, residents are urged to stay vigilant and informed about weather conditions, especially during the active spring severe weather season. Keeping abreast of forecasts and having a safety plan in place can be crucial for ensuring safety during such unpredictable weather events.
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Additional Resources
- WTVQ: EF-1 Tornado Confirmed in Lincoln and Garrard Counties
- Wikipedia: Tornado
- WBKO: Strong Storm System Leaves Damage Across Kentucky
- Google Search: tornado damage
- WKYT: Severe Weather Blows Shed onto Kentucky Highway
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Weather
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
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