Illinois community commemorates 100th anniversary of devastating tri-state tornado

MURPHYSBORO, Ill., (KBSI) — The Tri-State Tornado of March 18, 1925, remains the deadliest tornadic event in U.S. history, according to NOAA and the National Weather Service.

The devastating F-5 tornado tore through 219 miles of southeastern Missouri, southern Illinois and southwestern Indiana over 3 1/2 hours, claiming 695 lives.

Jackson and Franklin counties in Illinois bore the brunt of the disaster, with over 300 fatalities in Jackson County alone.

To commemorate the anniversary, a series of events are planned, including historical marker presentations and a March 18 program.

The Historical Society will also host a photo and artifact exhibit featuring one of the two remaining “tornado trees,” a unique phenomenon where lumber was driven into tree trunks by the forceful winds.