Maryland’s first tornadoes of the year

The year’s first tornadoes in Maryland occurred this past weekend, although in an area of the state where they are least likely to occur.

The National Weather Service surveyed several areas of damage across Garrett county after severe thunderstorms moved through western Maryland on Saturday evening. It was determined that two separate tornadoes were spawned by the same supercell thunderstorm as it worked across the county.

The first tornado touched down northwest of Friendsville just before 8pm and was rated an EF-1 with maximum winds of 90 mph. Just after 8pm, the second tornado touched down to the east of Friendsville, near the town of Accident. This tornado was also rated an EF-1 with maximum winds of 90mph. No fatalities or injuries were reported with either of the tornadoes.

Although less frequent in occurrence, tornado activity in hilly and mountainous regions, such as western Maryland, is not uncommon. The terrain can make conditions less likely for supercell thunderstorm development, however, if a supercell storm can develop in these areas a tornado can occur regardless of the type of terrain.

The Enhanced Fujita Scale:
EF0: 65 – 85 mph
EF1: 86 -110 mph
EF2: 111 – 135 mph
EF3: 136 – 165 mph
EF4: 166 – 200 mph
EF5: >200 mph