BOSTON — The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) joined local officials and the U.S. National Weather Service Boston on Monday to conduct post-storm surveys in areas affected by severe weather over the weekend.
A preliminary assessment by the National Weather Service determined that brief EF-1 tornadoes touched down in Paxton and Holden on Saturday afternoon, with wind speeds estimated between 86 and 110 miles per hour.
According to the National Weather Service, an Enhanced Fujita (i.e. EF) Scale 1 tornado is classified by wind speeds between 86 and 110 mph and is capable of causing moderate damage, including roof damage, uprooted trees, and overturned vehicles.
An updated assessment confirmed that Berlin and Stow also experienced brief EF-1 tornadoes during the storm system.
Survey teams did not find evidence of a tornado in Otis or Blandford, and a final determination regarding the storm damage in Berlin was expected later in the day.
Residents are encouraged to review tornado safety guidance available on MEMA’s website: mass.gov/info-details/tornado-safety-tips.
