Severe tornadoes hit several residences in southeastern Utah within the Navajo Nation, causing significant damage.
In an unusual turn of events, a tornado was observed south of Blanding in the Cahone Mesa area of San Juan County, Utah, on Saturday afternoon. The National Weather Service confirmed the presence of tornadoes in the region, but the wind speeds have yet to be determined.
Meteorologist Kris Sanders from the National Weather Service office in Grand Junction, Colorado, made the confirmation. The tornado was spotted around 1:12 p.m., approximately 22 miles southeast of Blanding. The twister was moving northeast at 10 miles per hour.
The Navajo Nation reservation, the largest of any Native American tribe, stretches into Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah. The affected area, home to around 15 to 20 homes, is part of this vast reservation. Three homes, three trailers, a hay barn, and multiple power poles were reportedly destroyed by the tornado. An unknown number of livestock and pets were also reported missing.
Utility workers are currently working to get power restored to the affected areas. The American Red Cross is providing emergency shelter with 25 to 30 cots available at the Montezuma Creek Elementary School. The local Chapter House is also helping displaced residents find hotel accommodations.
Fortunately, no injuries have been reported. The Navajo Police Department made this announcement on social media. A survey may be conducted on Monday to determine the exact tracks and wind speeds of the tornadoes.
Videos of a funnel cloud descending from the sky were shared with Scripps News Salt Lake City. Tornadoes are pretty unusual in that part of Utah, with only two confirmed by the weather service since 1950.
This incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather and the importance of being prepared. The community is encouraged to stay informed and follow any instructions from local authorities.
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