DOTHAN, Ala. — A powerful tornado that struck parts of Pike and Bullock counties late Saturday evening has been confirmed by the National Weather Service as a high-end EF2. With peak winds reaching 130 mph, the tornado carved a 21.29-mile-long path through the region, leaving widespread damage in its wake.
The twister touched down just two miles south of Mossy Grove at 11:02 p.m., remaining on the ground for 26 minutes. At its widest, the tornado measured over 3/4 of a mile across, with its largest size reaching a staggering 1,400 yards. As it traveled through the area, the tornado’s winds were strong enough to lift debris as high as 10,000 feet into the air.
The tornado’s path initially caused minor damage to tree branches, but the storm quickly intensified as it neared Enzor Road. The Troy Parks and Recreation building and softball fields at the Troy Sportsplex sustained significant roof damage as the tornado moved closer. As the storm crossed Highway 231, it reached EF1 intensity, uprooting and snapping numerous trees while also severely damaging a service station canopy.
The twister reached its peak strength near Elm Street Road, where it destroyed at least one home, rendering it uninhabitable. In the surrounding area, nearly all the trees were stripped from the ground. As the tornado continued along its path, it crossed Butter and Egg Road, maintaining its intensity and causing widespread tree damage in Banks. A metal building in the area also suffered severe damage.
As the tornado continued to move eastward through Pike County, it began to weaken. The damage became more sporadic and less intense, and by the time it reached Bullock County Road 8, the storm had significantly diminished in strength, leaving a trail of destruction that included damaged trees and debris.
Despite the extensive damage, there have been no immediate reports of fatalities. However, the full extent of the damage is still being assessed as recovery efforts continue in the affected areas.
Residents of Pike and Bullock counties are now beginning the long process of cleanup and rebuilding as authorities continue to monitor any additional impacts from the storm.
