Weather
Injuries reported after tornado touched down in Scotts Valley
The tornado formed rapidly in Scotts Valley, centered around Mount Hermon Road.
Scotts Valley, CA – A rare tornado touched down in Scotts Valley on Saturday afternoon, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The tornado, which struck around 1:30 p.m., caused widespread damage, flipped vehicles, and resulted in minor injuries.
The tornado formed rapidly in Scotts Valley, centered around Mount Hermon Road.
Several cars were flipped over by the powerful winds, and multiple buildings, trees, and power lines sustained significant damage. Witnesses reported seeing debris flying through the air as the tornado swept through.
Emergency responders treated several individuals for minor injuries at the scene.
A tornado was reported to have touched down in Scotts Valley in Santa Cruz County, the NWS says.https://t.co/WEtYDDdbzU pic.twitter.com/6skkGu2ZXS— News Channel3 Now (@newschannel3now) December 14, 2024
The National Weather Service (NWS) had issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for the area, including Scotts Valley, Santa Cruz, and Capitola, prior to the tornado’s development.
The tornado is believed to have been spawned by a supercell thunderstorm, characterized by rotating updrafts known as mesocyclones, which can contribute to tornado formation.
While the tornado itself was not clearly visible on radar, the storm’s rotation was evident, indicating the possibility of damaging winds. Alongside the tornado, straight-line winds may have compounded the damage.
The tornado, though brief, left a lasting impact:
Extensive destruction to buildings and vehicles, as well as downed power lines and trees.
Flipped cars caused temporary road closures and delays.
Tornadoes are a rare occurrence in California, though they can happen under specific weather conditions.
Authorities are working to assess the full extent of the damage. As of now, no severe injuries have been reported, but officials urge residents to remain cautious and vigilant as cleanup efforts begin.
The National Weather Service continues to monitor the area for potential follow-up storms and urges residents to stay updated on weather alerts.
For immediate updates or to report damage, contact local authorities or follow the National Weather Service alerts.
Weather
Tornado Warning Issued for San Francisco and Surrounding Areas Canceled
The NWS has announced the City of San Francisco, CA had its first-ever tornado warning on record in history this morning!
The National Weather Service (NWS) has announced that the tornado warning for San Francisco, Daly City, and Broadmoor, California, has been canceled as of this morning.
The severe storm system responsible for the warning has moved away from the area, and the immediate threat of tornado activity has subsided.
The tornado warning, issued earlier today and effective until 6:15 AM PST, was based on radar-indicated severe weather, including the potential for tornado activity and pea-sized hail.
Residents were urged to take immediate shelter and move to a basement or interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building, away from windows.
Although the tornado threat has passed, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant as weather conditions can change rapidly.
Monitor local updates from the National Weather Service for any additional advisories.
For those in low-lying or storm-affected areas, continue to exercise caution and be prepared for other potential weather-related hazards.