The National Weather Service in New Orleans says the tornadoes that touched down in St. Charles Parish and on the Westbanks of Jefferson Parish and New Orleans were likely an EF-2, considered a strong tornado on a scale that runs from zero (weakest) to five (violently devastating).
According to the Enhanced Fujita scale, EF-2 twisters have winds of 113-157 miles per hour, equal to a Category 3 through 5 hurricane. EF-2 tornadoes are capable of causing considerable damage, as described by the National Weather Service: "Roofs torn from frame houses; mobile homes demolished; boxcars pushed over; large trees snapped or uprooted; light objects become projectiles."
The weather service says they will release more details as they come in. Survey results can take time to compile.
Officials today said the damage does appear to be extensive. Gretna Mayor Belinda Constant says they expect dozens of buildings will have to be razed.
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