Tri-State tornado of 1925 remains deadliest in US history

MURPHYSBORO, Ill., (KBSI) — The Tri-State Tornado of March 18, 1925, continues to hold the record as the most devastating tornadic event in American history, according to NOAA and the National Weather Service.

The F-5 tornado traveled 219 miles through southeastern Missouri, southern Illinois and southwestern Indiana over 3 1/2 hours, killing approximately 695 people.

The majority of casualties occurred in Jackson and Franklin counties in Illinois, with Jackson County alone accounting for over 300 deaths.

A commemoration event is planned to mark the anniversary, featuring historical marker presentations, a March 18 program and a photo and artifact exhibit hosted by the Historical Society.

One of the exhibit’s highlights will be the display of a rare “tornado tree,” one of only two known to still exist.

The tree, cared for by the Illinois State Museum, features pieces of lumber driven into its trunk by the tornado’s powerful winds.