The National Weather Service (NWS) has verified that a weak tornado rolled through southeastern Vigo County on Wednesday evening. A survey crew from the Indianapolis office visited the area near the small community of Riley on Thursday and documented EF-0 damage with estimated wind speeds of 85 miles per hour.
Details of the tornado
The tornado touched down at 5:27 p.m., approximately two miles south‑southwest of Riley, and remained on the ground for about 1.1 miles before lifting two minutes later. The brief path produced typical EF-0 damage, including torn roof sections on several homes and a partially destroyed grain bin located south of the town.
In addition to the tornado, the storm system generated numerous hail reports across the southern portion of Vigo County. Residents reported hailstones ranging from pea‑size to marble‑size, adding to the overall impact of the severe weather event.
Local response and safety reminders
Local emergency management officials reminded residents to stay alert for any lingering hazards, such as downed power lines and fallen trees, which can pose safety risks after a storm. The NWS encourages anyone who observes damage or suspects a tornado has occurred to report it to local authorities or the NWS’s Storm Prediction Center.
While the tornado caused only minor structural damage, officials emphasized the importance of having a family emergency plan, a stocked disaster kit, and a reliable means of receiving weather alerts, such as a NOAA weather radio or a trusted mobile app.
Looking ahead
Forecasters indicated that the weather pattern responsible for the tornado could produce additional isolated storms later this week, though no further tornadoes are currently expected. Residents are urged to monitor updates from the NWS and local news outlets for any changes in the forecast.
Community members who experienced damage are encouraged to document the impact with photographs and contact their insurance providers promptly. Local repair contractors are also standing by to assist homeowners with roof repairs and other necessary restoration work.
Original reporting: 14 News WFIE Evansville (news) — read the source article.
