Monday Marks 15 Years Since an EF-3 Tornado Hits Western Massachusetts

Monday Marks 15 Years Since an EF-3 Tornado Hits Western Massachusetts
Western Mass News
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SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - It’s a day we never forget here in Western Mass. June 1, 2011, an EF-3 tornado rips through Hampden County, with winds estimated to peak around 160 mph.

That tornado touching down first in Westfield at 4:17pm, traveling a path of 38 miles, and lifting near Charlton and Southbridge by 5:27pm. At times, the tornado got to be about a half mile wide.

Viral video capturing the moments when the tornado moved from West Springfield, over the Connecticut River, and over the Memorial Bridge. Which at that time, had a lot of cars on it, since it was the afternoon rush hour. Then making its way through downtown Springfield.

In its path, heavy forests were leveled, 1,400 homes and nearly 80 businesses were destroyed. Around 200 people were injured and 3 people died from this tornado.

Monday, Springfield mayor Domenic Sarno asked the community to participate in a moment of silence at 4:38pm, the exact moment the tornado entered Springfield.

To this day, the long-tern effects of the tornado can still be seen. From areas of new construction and much younger trees to areas that may still sit abandoned to this day.

Another example, Cathedral High School being destroyed, leading to the creation of Pope Francis Preparatory School.

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