The National Weather Service has confirmed a tornado touched down in Chelsea and Revere, Massachusetts, around 9:30 a.m. Monday. Although the tornado began in Chelsea, the majority of the damage occurred in Revere.
The tornado had a path length of two miles and a path width of 3/8 of a mile.
Most of the damage had a rating of EF-1 on the enhanced Fujita scale, but EF-2 damage was observed in the vicinity of Revere Beach Parkway. Thus, this event is classified as an EF-2 tornado.
Maximum wind gusts were estimated at between 100 and 120 mph.
There has been some roof collapses, downed power lines and telephone poles, and damage to public buildings and homes.
If anyone sees any downed power lines or downed trees, please call 911 and stay away from the area. Officials are also telling the public to be aware of gas leaks.
Authorities are asking people to stay out of the area, if possible.
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"This was unexpected and took us all by surprise, but we are doing everything we can to rectify the situation," says Mayor Daniel Rizzo.
City officials will continue to update the public via the city's website here.
There have been no reports of any serious injuries.
Rizzo said City Hall was evacuated due to damage and will likely be closed for a couple of days. There is also significant damage at the high school.
"I think there have been about 13 homes that have been considered uninhabitable," says Rizzo. More than 60 houses were damaged.
"I'm grateful for the support we've received from the Governor's office...our neighboring cities and towns to help the city get through this," says Rizzo. "The primary focus has been and continues to be the safety and well-being of our residents."
The mayor asks residents at this time to please be patient and stay calm.
If anyone feels that they are in any type of danger, please call 911.
"We're gonna get through this just fine," says Rizzo.
Rizzo is encouraging residents to check on their elderly neighbors.
The National Weather Service confirms the Revere tornado is the first tornado touchdown in Suffolk County since records kept in 1950.
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