Stalybridge storm confirmed as a tornado

THE FREAK ‘supercell’ storm that swept through Stalybridge, causing damage across the town, has been officially graded as a tornado.

Many people whose houses and cars were caught up in the event, which occurred at about 11pm on Wednesday, December 27, described it as like a twister seen in America or in Hollywood fims.

Now the Tornado and Storm Research Organisation (TORRO) has classed it as one of T5 rating – halfway up the 10-stage International Tornado Intensity Scale.

Described as an ‘Intense Tornado’, it means winds were at speeds of between 62 and 72 metres per second, or 137 and 160 miles per hour.

It can lift heavier motor vehicles and blow off an entire roof, as was showed on Calico Crescent in Carrbrook and Hough Hill Road on Stalybridge.

According to the scale, items including partition walls and furniture, can be sucked out of properties while older, weaker ones can collapse completely.

In a statement, TORRO said: “TORRO is aware of reports of significant damage in the broad Dukinfield, Stalybridge and Mossley areas of Tameside (Greater Manchester) during the late evening on Wednesday, December 27, 2023, in association with Storm Gerrit.

“Following a site investigation on Thursday, December 28, TORRO can confirm that Stalybridge was hit by a tornado late on Wednesday, December 27 with a provisional maximum damage rating of T5 on the T Scale.

“Further analysis and investigations will take place over the coming days, and a detailed written report will be provided when available.

“TORRO is very grateful to members of the public for providing information on damage and eyewitness accounts, which are invaluable in helping the analysis of this event.”