In brief
Over the weekend, a storm in southeastern Utah generated two tornadoes, resulting in the destruction of three homes near Montezuma Creek. Fortunately, local authorities reported no injuries. The National Weather Service confirmed the rare occurrence of tornadoes in the area, with further assessments planned to determine their precise paths and wind speeds. While livestock and pets were reported missing, the community remains resilient in the aftermath of the storm.
MONTICELLO, Utah (AP) — Two tornadoes swept through southeastern Utah over the weekend, resulting in the destruction of several homes but miraculously no injuries were reported. According to meteorologist Kris Sanders from the National Weather Service's office in Grand Junction, Colorado, the tornadoes touched down in San Juan County starting at approximately 12:35 p.m. on Saturday, traversing a path likely less than 10 miles long in the vicinity of Montezuma Creek.Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren confirmed via social media that three homes were completely demolished by the storm. The Navajo Nation, which spans 27,000 square miles and crosses into Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah, is the largest reservation among Native American tribes.While there were no injuries reported, the Navajo Police Department noted that an unknown number of livestock and pets had gone missing, raising concerns among the community. Images shared online depicted dramatic scenes, including a towering tornado amidst dark storm clouds and a flattened house surrounded by debris.Tornadoes are quite rare in this part of Utah, with Sanders highlighting that only two have been confirmed in the region since 1950. The weather service plans to conduct further surveys to ascertain the exact tracks and wind speeds of the tornadoes.
