Louisiana – The National Weather Service in Lake Charles has officially confirmed the occurrence of three tornadoes resulting from the severe weather that swept through Southwest Louisiana on May 13, 2024. The impact of the storms left a trail of destruction across the region, with two tornadoes striking Calcasieu Parish and another tearing through Henderson.
In Sulphur, an EF-2 tornado touched down, bringing with it winds of significant force. The Enhanced Fujita Scale, often shortened to EF Scale, is used to classify tornadoes based on their estimated wind speeds and the damage they cause. An EF-2 tornado typically has wind speeds ranging from 111 to 135 mph, making it capable of causing considerable damage to structures and vegetation in its path.
The second tornado, an EF-1, made its way from Westlake to Lake Charles, affecting multiple areas along the route. An EF-1 tornado is characterized by wind speeds between 86 and 110 mph, which can cause moderate damage to buildings and trees. The path of this tornado spanning two cities underscores the widespread impact of the severe weather event.
Lastly, in Henderson, another EF-2 tornado was reported, further adding to the devastation caused by the storm system. The confirmation of multiple tornadoes shows the intensity and scale of the severe weather event that swept through the region, leaving residents and authorities to assess and address the aftermath.
The National Weather Service’s confirmation of these tornadoes serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable and often destructive nature of severe weather systems.
Sulphur, Louisiana Tornado Damage Survey
Westlake, Louisiana – Lake Charles, Louisiana Tornado Damage Survey
Henderson, Louisiana Tornado Damage Survey
