EF1 Tornado Hits Independence Missouri Causing Minor Damage

The National Weather Service has confirmed that an EF1 tornado struck Independence, Missouri, on Tuesday afternoon, with peak winds reaching up to 100 mph and a path stretching approximately 3.75 miles long and 50 yards wide. The tornado caused significant damage, including numerous downed and uprooted trees, with some falling on homes and buildings, though no injuries have been reported. The city has launched a volunteer-based cleanup program to help residents affected by the storm, particularly those unable to manage the debris on their own. Additionally, a separate, smaller tornado, classified as EF-U due to limited damage indicators, was reported near the Truman Sports Complex in Kansas City. Emergency officials credited prompt warnings and community preparedness for minimizing harm, and cleanup efforts are ongoing across the affected neighborhoods. The National Weather Service continues to survey the area to assess the full extent of damage.