Teller County's Twister: A Close Look at the Damage

A powerful storm swept through Teller County, Colorado, leaving a trail of destruction. The National Weather Service confirmed an EF-1 tornado with wind gusts reaching 106 miles per hour. This tornado touched down 2 miles north-northeast of Divide, Colorado, at 12:41 p. m. on Tuesday. The exact path of the tornado is still under investigation, with drone footage expected to provide more clarity. The storm caused significant damage, particularly in the neighborhoods of Divide. Strong winds uprooted and snapped numerous trees, causing chaos and blocking roads. One family reported losing 24 trees on their property alone. The National Weather Service is working to determine the tornado's path and the extent of the damage. To identify a tornado, weather experts look for specific patterns in the damage. If trees fall in the same direction, it indicates strong winds. However, if trees are scattered in different directions, it suggests a tornado. The National Weather Service uses a Damage Assessment Toolkit to gather data and piece together the tornado's path. This toolkit allows meteorologists to take photos and record the exact location of the damage, helping them reconstruct the tornado's journey. The storm left a visible impact on the community. The Kimler family shared their experience, noting that they had never witnessed such destruction despite receiving tornado warnings. Michelle Kimler recounted how she couldn't even access her driveway due to the fallen trees. Neighbors praised the efforts of Peak Landscapes, a veteran-owned company, which assisted in clearing debris and downed trees without charging for their services. The Teller County Sheriff's Office confirmed there is no official plan in place to help residents with debris removal, but county commissioners visited affected homes to check on residents. Fortunately, no injuries or serious damage to homes were reported. The National Weather Service emphasized the importance of their warnings in protecting lives and property. The storm served as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the need for preparedness. The community's resilience and the support from local businesses highlighted the strength of the neighborhood in the face of adversity.