Possible Tornado Damage Under Investigation in Williamstown

The National Weather Service is conducting an assessment in Williamstown following reports of potential tornado activity on Thursday evening.

A team from the National Weather Service is conducting an assessment in Williamstown following reports of potential tornado activity on Thursday evening. On Friday morning, numerous accounts and images surfaced depicting extensive damage, including several trees uprooted and harm to residences and buildings throughout the area.

The highest concentration of reported destruction appears to be around Chelsea Road and Lila's Way, where visuals indicated significant damage, including a barn roof that was detached and flung into a nearby tree. As severe thunderstorms swept through, a Severe Thunderstorm Warning was issued, which highlighted wind gusts of up to 60 mph and golf ball-sized hail, suggesting the possibility of tornado formation.

In reaction to the damage reports and supporting imagery, the Burlington branch of the National Weather Service dispatched a survey crew, which began its on-site investigation by 11 a.m. Friday. They aim to determine the tornado's path and intensity.

While tornadoes are uncommon in Vermont, they do have historical precedent. For instance, an EF-1 tornado occurred in Middlebury in 2021, resulting in notable destruction including a house being torn apart, cars flipped, and two injuries reported. Another tornado event was documented the following year in Addison.

Residents affected by Thursday night’s storms are encouraged to share their experiences. Besides the reports from Williamstown, there are additional mentions of hail in northern New Hampshire and tree destruction noted in northern New York.