EF-1 tornado strikes Webster County near Seymour

The National Weather Service (NWS) has confirmed that a tornado struck Webster County near Seymour Friday night. The storm was officially rated as an EF-1, with winds reaching a maximum of 100 mph. An assessment team from the NWS conducted a survey on Saturday to evaluate the damage and confirm the storm’s strength.

The tornado, which began approximately five miles north of Diggins, tracked east into western Wright County, covering a path length of 17.27 miles. The tornado was estimated to be about 60 yards wide and ended six miles southeast of Grovespring. Despite the storm's intensity, Webster County Emergency Management Director reports no major injuries. Some residents experienced minor scrapes and bruises, but no serious harm was reported.

The National Weather Service issued a Tornado Warning for the storm system between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Friday night, with radar indicating wind speeds of approximately 90 mph in some areas. The storm system impacted several counties, beginning in Greene County and continuing northeast through Christian, Webster, Wright, Laclede, Pulaski, and Phelps Counties.

In Webster County, damage reports have been concentrated around State Highway P in the Seymour area, where emergency management officials noted a few injuries and significant damage. The tornado also devastated parts of the Amish community, with assistance being provided by Webster County Emergency Management and local partners. Officials have pledged to respect the culture and traditions of the Amish community as they continue to offer help.

One of the most chilling stories comes from this area, where James Curl reports on what he describes as a miracle. According to Curl, three little girls left the dinner table to go to the outhouse Friday night when unsuspectingly, the tornado hit hile they were inside the outhouse. As the tornado finished with its destruction, all that was left standing were three walls of the outhouse, which shielded the girls. They exited unahrmed.

Webster County Sheriff Roye Cole stated that his deputies are focusing on the areas near Diggins and Seymour as they continue to assess the aftermath. Webster County Emergency Management is actively working alongside local agencies to support residents affected by the storm.

According to Charles Hutchins, an Amish Disaster Relief Fund has been established courtesy of the Seymour Bank, at both the Marshfield and Seymour branches. Items may also be taken to Kleier’s Farm and Home in Seymour.

Anyone in need of assistance is encouraged to reach out to the emergency management office for help.