An EF-1 tornado is a classification within the Enhanced Fujita scale, which rates the intensity of tornadoes based on the damage they cause to buildings and vegetation. The EF scale ranges from EF-0, which causes minimal damage, to EF-5, which can cause devastating destruction.
Specifically, an EF-1 tornado has wind speeds ranging from 86 to 110 miles per hour (138 to 177 kilometers per hour). At this intensity, you can expect damage such as the uprooting of trees, the roofs of houses being damaged, and some, but not extensive, structural damage to well-built homes. An EF-1 tornado is considered to be relatively moderate in terms of tornado strength, but it still poses significant risks to life and property if proper precautions are not taken.
Understanding the classifications of tornadoes, like EF-1, helps meteorologists and the public assess the potential impact of severe weather more effectively, leading to better preparedness and safety measures.