NWS confirms EF-1 tornado in Great Valley, New York

The National Weather Service (NWS), in collaboration with Cattaraugus County’s Office of Emergency Services and the Sheriff’s Office, conducted a storm damage survey confirming an EF-1 tornado impacted Great Valley, New York, on June 9. The tornado touched down at 17:37 LT and remained on the ground for approximately four minutes, ending in Humphrey at 17:41 LT. No injuries were reported.

The tornado followed a 3.8 km (2.4 miles) path along Sugartown Road and Forks Creek, with a maximum width of 550 m (1 800 feet). Radar imagery detected debris lofted into the atmosphere, providing confirmation of tornadic activity. Peak winds were estimated at 177 km/h (110 mph), classifying the tornado at the low end of the Enhanced Fujita Scale’s EF-1 rating.

Significant structural damage occurred in the area, particularly along Sugartown Road, Farm Market Road, Haines Hollow Road, and Bonnie Way. Several homes and garages sustained major roof and wall damage, with one residence losing its entire roof while occupants were still inside. Structures built under modern construction standards appeared to withstand the winds better than older buildings.

Extensive tree damage was observed, especially north of Route 98 and along the adjacent hillsides. Survey teams documented more than 100 hardwood trees sheared at mid-trunk height near the intersections of Sugartown Road. The tornado’s damage track continued northeast with scattered tree and minor structural impacts along McGuan Road.

A delivery truck was overturned and multiple barns and outbuildings were destroyed along the tornado’s path. In addition to property losses, valuable timber resources were also damaged or lost.

Power outages affected approximately 50 homes and properties.

National Grid responded within an hour of the tornado with 11 repair crews. By 00:00 LT on June 10, electricity was restored to most affected customers, and full service was reestablished by 12:00 LT.

While tornadoes in New York are less common than in the central United States, they are not rare. The state averages approximately 10 tornadoes per year, most of which are rated EF-0 or EF-1. These events typically occur during the summer months, with upstate regions like Cattaraugus County experiencing a higher frequency than urban areas.

Reet Kaur

I’m a science journalist and researcher at The Watchers, contributing to the Epicenter edition, where I cover peer-reviewed scientific research and emerging discoveries across Earth and space sciences. With a background in astronomy and a passion for environmental science, I’ve worked in shark and coral conservation in Fiji, conducting reef and shark-behavior research, contributing to mangrove restoration, and earning PADI Open Water and Coral Reef Certifications. I bring a blend of scientific rigor and storytelling to illuminate the discoveries shaping our planet and beyond.

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