Event Summary
National Weather Service meteorologists surveyed damage in eastern Blount County and have determined that the damage is consistent with an EF-1 tornado with maximum winds estimated to be 105 mph.
The tornado touched down near the intersection of Boat Landing Road and Seven Mile Road, about 4 miles south-southwest of the city of Oneonta, where it damaged and uprooted several trees. From there it moved northeastward, practically paralleling the ridge of Straight Mountain for nearly 8 miles. It remained over largely rural areas for much of its path. It broadened to 1000 yards wide just after crossing US-231. Damage along US-231 consisted of mainly snapped pines and uprooted hardwoods. There was minor damage to a few homes and buildings in the area, although one chicken barn was heavily damaged. The tornado moved north-northeastward across Wadsworth Road and continued to cause widespread tree damage. It continued to slowly cross Airport Road diagonally, with continued tree damage and predominantly minor roof damage to homes and significant damage to outbuildings and hay barns. The only exception was a small older home that sustained significant damage. The tornado maintained its strength as it crossed County Road 20, Lowes Road, and finally Airport Road once again before dissipating rapidly at the airport.
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