Fresno Under Tornado Warning As Severe Storm Threatens California

Fresno Under Tornado Warning As Severe Storm Threatens California...

A rare tornado warning was issued for Fresno, California, on Friday afternoon as a powerful storm system moved through the Central Valley. The National Weather Service (NWS) urged residents to take immediate shelter, marking one of the region's most significant severe weather threats in years.

The warning, active until 4:30 PM PDT, covers central Fresno County and surrounding areas. Meteorologists detected rotation in thunderstorms capable of producing a tornado, with damaging winds and hail also expected. Social media footage showed dark, swirling clouds near Highway 99.

Local schools and businesses initiated emergency protocols, with some districts keeping students indoors past dismissal. Fresno County Office of Emergency Services activated alert systems, advising residents to avoid travel. The storm comes amid an unusually active spring weather pattern across California.

Power outages were reported in northwest Fresno as winds exceeded 60 mph. Pacific Gas & Electric crews were dispatched to assess damage. The NWS emphasized that tornadoes in California are rare but dangerous, with the last significant event occurring in 2020 near Yuba City.

This warning follows a week of severe weather nationwide, including deadly tornadoes in Oklahoma. Climate scientists note increasing volatility in West Coast storm systems. Fresno residents are advised to monitor NWS updates and shelter in interior rooms if warnings renew.

Emergency shelters opened at Fresno Fairgrounds for those displaced. The Red Cross mobilized volunteers as the storm moves toward Merced County. Officials warn of possible flash flooding through Saturday morning.