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 Sunday 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 severe weather threats in recent years.

The warning, active until 4:30 PM PDT, covered central Fresno County, including the city of Fresno and surrounding communities. 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 emergency services reported downed trees and power lines as the storm intensified. Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) said over 8,000 customers lost electricity by mid-afternoon. Fresno Unified School District canceled after-school activities, while Fresno Yosemite International Airport delayed flights.

Tornadoes are uncommon in California’s Central Valley, making today’s warning particularly alarming. The NWS last issued a tornado warning for Fresno County in 2018. Climate scientists note that warming temperatures may increase the frequency of such extreme weather events in typically arid regions.

Residents shared videos of funnel clouds forming near rural areas southeast of Fresno. The Fresno County Sheriff’s Office advised people to avoid travel and stay indoors. “This is not a drill,” tweeted Sheriff John Zanoni. “Take cover now if you’re in the warning area.”

The storm is part of a larger system bringing heavy rain and thunderstorms across Northern and Central California. Sacramento and Stockton also faced flash flood advisories. The NWS expects conditions to improve by evening but warns of lingering wind gusts.

Google Trends data shows surging searches for “Fresno tornado” as locals seek real-time updates. The hashtag #FresnoStorm is trending on Twitter, with users posting damage reports and safety tips. Authorities will assess the full extent of the damage once the storm passes.