The First EF5 In 12 Years!

After a thorough reanalysis, the National Weather Service in Grand Forks upgraded the June 20, 2025 Enderlin, North Dakota tornado to **EF5**—the first EF5 in the U.S. in 12 years.

Survey teams paired ground observations with radar data. Peak winds exceeded **210 mph**, the track ran **~12 miles**, and the maximum width reached **~1 mile**. Evidence included multiple loaded grain hoppers tipped, an empty tanker lofted about **476 feet**, and extensive debarking along the Maple River.

There were three fatalities. Several farmsteads were obliterated with foundations swept clean, and the Maple River corridor showed scouring and root ball displacement—hallmarks of violent tornadic winds.

Below are selected graphics and images from the NWS statement and survey materials for historical context.

Source: NWS Grand Forks public statement and survey graphics (Enderlin Tornado #1).

Photo credits: Alex Resel, Brian Emfinger, Aaron Rigsby (as noted on original slides).