The National Weather Service in Tulsa has completed its damage survey of the tornado that hit Barnsdall and Bartlesville.

 

The EF-4 tornado developed Monday southeast of Hominy, and crossed Highway 20, causing significant tree damage and snapping numerous metal power poles. The tornado hit Barnsdall and caused severe damage to the wax plant on the southeast side of town, then damaged and destroyed numerous homes on the east side of town. Maximum wind speeds were estimated at 175 miles per hour, which is within the EF-4 category.

 

The tornado moved across the southern portion of Bartlesville, then across the eastern side of town, damaging homes and businesses. A squall line merged with the tornadic supercell and finally ended the tornado process on the northeast side of Bartlesville. The tornado lasted about 45 minutes and covered almost 40 miles and had a maximum width of at least 1,500 yards.

 

Photo: NWS Tulsa