What is an F-4 Tornado?

An F-4 tornado is a powerful and destructive tornado classified under the original Fujita Scale (F-Scale), which was used from 1971 until 2007 before being replaced by the Enhanced Fujita Scale (EF-Scale). An F-4 tornado has estimated wind speeds between 207 and 260 mph, capable of leveling well-constructed homes, derailing trains, and hurling large debris like cars and trees through the air.

These tornadoes are rare but extremely dangerous. The force of an F-4 tornado is often enough to obliterate entire neighborhoods, reduce buildings to rubble, and make survival nearly impossible without a properly reinforced storm shelter or safe room. In the Enhanced Fujita Scale, an F-4 is roughly equivalent to an EF-4, with wind speeds ranging from 166 to 200 mph, though the modern scale takes structural damage into account more precisely.

Effects of an F-4 Tornado

An F-4 tornado can cause catastrophic damage, such as:

• Complete destruction of houses and buildings – only strong structures remain partially standing.
• Flying debris turning into deadly missiles, including cars, large trees, and metal objects.
• Severe injury or fatalities for those not in underground storm shelters or safe rooms.
• Infrastructure collapse, including power lines, bridges, and water systems.

Importance of Tornado Shelters

Because of the sheer destructive power of an F-4 tornado, above-ground safe rooms and underground tornado shelters are critical for survival. Families and businesses in tornado-prone areas should invest in FEMA-rated storm shelters, which are designed to withstand EF-5 tornado winds, ensuring safety even in extreme storms.