First October tornado on record in Wyoming confirmed near Alta

A rare EF-1 tornado occurred near Alta, Wyoming, in the Teton Canyon portion of the Caribou–Targhee National Forest on October 15, between 13:35–13:37 local time (LT).

The event was confirmed by the National Weather Service on October 28, following post-event analysis using ground observations, aerial drone footage, and satellite imagery.

This event represents the third tornado on record in Teton County and the first known tornado to occur in the state of Wyoming during the month of October.

The tornado’s path was approximately 1.6 km (1 mile) long and up to 114 m (374 feet) wide. It began at an elevation of about 2 408 m (7 900 feet) above sea level and ended near 2 103 m (6 900 feet).

Reports from social media after the storm indicated tree damage in Teton Canyon. During the week following the event, drone imagery obtained by the Teton County Sheriff’s Office, along with satellite data, revealed a defined corridor of tree damage consistent with wind speeds of 140–167 km/h (87–104 mph).

Using the Enhanced Fujita Scale Damage Indicator for softwood trees, the tornado was classified as EF-1.

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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