May 9, 2006 Storm Survey

Tornadoes (Limestone County)

Near Highway 99 north of the Elk River, a tornado was produced on the northern end of a strong bow segment. The tornado touched down several times along a 5 mile path beginning approximately two miles south of the Salem community, and ending 3 miles southwest of Elkmont. Several trees were either uprooted or snapped along the path, but no other property damage was observed. The tornado was rated as an F0, with maximum winds of 70 mph. Maximum width of the tornado was approximately 60 yards. (Reference: the Fujita Scale)


The second damage area was near Highway 99 at Easter Ferry Read. Widespread damage caused by a localized downburst within strong straight line winds was noted. At the northern end of the damage area, winds consistent with a brief tornado were observed. In this area, several homes sustained damage from falling trees, with two additional homes suffering wind damage to carports and patios. The tornado was approximately 30 yards in width, with a path of 50 yards. The wind damage from the downburst was estimated to be 80 mph. The tornado damage, which displayed weaker wind speeds, was rated as a F0 with wind speeds estimated at 70 mph.