Rare EF-0 Tornado Hits Near Westcliffe, Colorado

A rare high-altitude EF-0 tornado with winds reaching 85 mph touched down near Westcliffe in Custer County, Colorado, on July 30, lasting about five minutes and traveling 0.34 miles. The National Weather Service confirmed the tornado through damage assessments and multiple eyewitness videos, including footage from Gary Jackson. Authorities reported only minimal damage, limited to three damaged power poles, and there were no injuries. The Custer County Sheriff’s Office and local firefighters responded promptly, and power crews began repairs. Tornadoes are highly unusual in Colorado's mountainous regions, where most tornadoes occur on the Eastern Plains. Residents received timely tornado warnings, and the event attracted attention due to its rarity and dramatic visuals.