Deadly Tornadoes and Derecho Devastate North Dakota and Upper Midwest

A powerful severe weather event, marked by violent tornadoes and a destructive derecho, tore through North Dakota and parts of the Upper Midwest on the night of June 20, 2025, leaving a trail of devastation and at least three confirmed fatalities. The storms, characterized by wind speeds exceeding 100 mph, obliterated homes, derailed a train, and caused widespread power outages, marking this as one of the most significant natural disasters in the region’s recent history.

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Grand Forks reported that a particularly violent tornado struck near Enderlin, along the Cass and Ransom county line, around midnight. This tornado, described as one of the deadliest in North Dakota in years, claimed at least two lives when it destroyed a home. Storm chaser reports and preliminary NWS assessments indicate the tornado exhibited characteristics of an EF4 or higher, with trees debarked and structures swept away, leaving little debris in its wake. Another fatality was reported in connection with the broader storm system, though specific details remain under investigation.

In addition to the tornadoes, a derecho—a long-lived, straight-line windstorm—swept across the Northern Plains, producing wind gusts up to 115 mph. The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) had issued tornado watches and severe thunderstorm warnings for North and South Dakota and Minnesota, highlighting the potential for destructive winds and large hail. The derecho’s impact was felt across a wide area, with reports of damaged homes, uprooted trees, and significant infrastructure disruptions. A notable incident involved a train derailment caused by the extreme winds, though no injuries were reported in that specific event.

The storms led to nearly 10,000 power outages, with the region between Bismarck and Jamestown particularly hard-hit. Utility crews are working around the clock to restore electricity, but the extent of the damage has complicated efforts. The FOX Forecast Center noted that hurricane-force wind gusts, exceeding 74 mph, were a primary driver of the destruction, underscoring the storm’s exceptional intensity.

Communities across North Dakota are now in the early stages of recovery, supported by local and state officials. Governor Doug Burgum expressed condolences, stating, “Our hearts go out to the families affected by this tragic event. We are mobilizing resources to aid in recovery and rebuild stronger.” Emergency response teams are assessing damage, clearing debris, and providing aid to displaced residents. Social media posts from storm chasers and locals reflect a mix of grief and solidarity, with many calling for support for the affected families.

The rarity and ferocity of this weather event have drawn attention to the increasing unpredictability of severe weather in the Upper Midwest. The SPC’s Day 1 Convective Outlook for June 20 had warned of conditions favorable for supercell thunderstorms, capable of producing tornadoes, winds over 75 mph, and hail larger than 2 inches. While tornadoes are not uncommon in the region during summer, the scale and violence of this outbreak, combined with the derecho, have marked it as a historic event.

The fading La Niña, transitioning to ENSO-neutral conditions, may have influenced atmospheric patterns, contributing to the storm’s intensity, though further study is needed.

17GEN4.com

17GEN4 news