Fast-moving landspout strikes Franktown, Colorado, damaging multiple businesses

A fast-moving landspout impacted the area of Highway 86 and Burning Tree Drive in Franktown, Douglas County, Colorado, at approximately 14:30 LT on July 14.

According to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO), the vortex caused significant damage to at least three buildings housing multiple businesses and resulted in one tree catching fire. No injuries were reported.

Visual confirmation of the landspout was shared by both eyewitnesses and local authorities, with video footage showing the funnel visibly touching down and striking structures. One of the affected buildings lost its roof entirely, while other structures sustained partial damage. Several parked vehicles were also impacted by windborne debris.

Deputies from DCSO and personnel from the Franktown Fire Protection District responded immediately to the scene. Emergency crews secured the area and initiated cleanup operations while urging the public to avoid the vicinity during ongoing assessments.

The National Weather Service (NWS) had issued a weather bulletin for the area around 14:40 LT, warning of wind gusts up to 80 km/h (50 mph) and nickel-sized hail.

Landspouts are generally weaker than supercell tornadoes but can still produce damaging winds capable of tearing roofs, breaking windows, and uprooting trees. They form rapidly and often without the warning lead time typical of mesocyclonic tornadoes.

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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