An EF2 tornado struck Seminole County, Florida, on the morning of March 10, causing destruction in the cities of Longwood and Lake Mary. Wind speeds reached up to 115 mph. The National Weather Service called this tornado a rare event for Central Florida, where only 10% of such twisters reach EF1 or EF2 strength.
The tornado left a path of destruction about four miles long. In Longwood, one house was completely destroyed, but its residents survived. Several other buildings sustained severe damage. Semi-trailers were overturned in the county, including one with a driver and a dog inside. Fallen trees, damaged power lines, and scattered debris were reported throughout the area.
FOX 35’s studio in Lake Mary found itself at the heart of the storm when the tornado suddenly passed directly over the building during a live broadcast. Anchor Brooks Garner was reporting on the approaching threat when the situation drastically changed — surveillance cameras captured powerful wind gusts, and alarming footage appeared on the screen: shingles, tree branches, and even plastic containers were sent flying. Viewers witnessed a rare and dramatic moment as the news channel wasn’t just covering the tornado — it was caught in its direct path.
By evening, about 500 homes remained without power. Authorities, together with utility companies, were working to restore the grid, while police increased patrols in affected areas. Residents were urged to stay away from downed power lines.
Despite the widespread destruction, no serious injuries or fatalities were reported.
Overheated ocean waters are fueling the rapid increase in both the frequency and intensity of natural disasters. To learn more about the causes of record ocean warming and its consequences for the planet and humanity, watch the Popular Science Film: “Anthropogenic Factor in the Ocean’s Demise”