The National Weather Service (NWS) has confirmed that the tornado that struck Van Buren, Arkansas, on Friday morning (June 6) was rated as an EF1. The tornado, which touched down at 7:46 a.m., had wind speeds between 95 and 105 mph and was approximately 115 yards wide. It traveled about 0.8 miles before dissipating near the Baptist Health-Van Buren complex.
The tornado caused significant structural damage, particularly along Ozier Street, Mulberry Street, and South 19th Street. Two homes suffered major damage, with one losing its entire roof and another experiencing substantial roof damage. According to the NWS report, one person was injured during the storm, but no fatalities were reported.
The Van Buren tornado was part of a larger severe weather system that included two other brief tornadoes in the area. Survey teams are currently evaluating additional tornado activity near the Port of Van Buren. The NWS has indicated that these findings are preliminary and subject to further review.
The event follows a significant tornado outbreak in Arkansas earlier this year in March, which included multiple tornadoes ranging from EF2 to EF4 in intensity.