From The Tribune staff reports
CENTER POINT The National Weather Service in Birmingham upgraded the tornado that hit the Fultondale area to an EF-3. Damage was reported primarily north of Walker Chapel Road NW to U.S. Highway 31 and to New Castle Road. Crews said winds were at least 150 mph on the evening of Monday, Jan. 25, 2021.
“Keep in mind that intensity & width varied along its path,” the NWS posted on Facebook. “The EF-3 damage was focused near Lykes Blvd. to New Castle Rd.”
The tornado had a path length of 9.5 miles and a max width of 500 yards, according to the NWS.
By Erica Thomas, managing editor
PINSON A tornado on the night of Monday, Jan. 25, 2021, left many people without a home in Jefferson County. One of the hardest hit areas was off of Pinson Valley Parkway, at Rusk Mobile Home Park. Although there were no injuries, many homes in the park were destroyed.
Homes were ripped in half, roofs were blown away and debris covered the roads inside the park.
Jefferson County Commissioner Joe Knight visited the park Tuesday. Knight said what he witnessed inside the community should inspire others.
“I see a community coming together at a time of crisis,” said Knight. “This could be an example for all America.”