LITTLE ROCK, Ark. - A devastating tornado tore through Boone and Marion Counties on Sunday morning, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The National Weather Service survey teams have officially classified the storm as an EF3 tornado, with wind speeds reaching a staggering 145 miles per hour.

The tornado formed near Bellefonte in Boone County at approximately 3:27 a.m., and for the next 37 minutes, it proceeded to wreak havoc over a span of 21 miles. The destructive cyclone finally dissipated near Summit in Marion County. Remarkably, this monstrous twister spanned almost a mile in width, making it an enormous force of nature to contend with.

Tragically, the EF3 tornado claimed the lives of four individuals and left another person injured. The storm's ferocity was evident in the substantial damage it caused to numerous homes and structures along its path. The affected communities now face the daunting task of rebuilding and recovering from this devastating event.

In response to the extent of the destruction, survey teams from the National Weather Service's office in Little Rock are planning to assess the additional damage caused by this tornado in northern Arkansas. Their thorough evaluations will assist in determining the full scale of the impact and providing accurate information for recovery efforts.

As residents and authorities come to terms with the aftermath of this natural disaster, local communities are bound together in unity and resilience. Efforts to support the affected families and begin the process of rebuilding have already begun, with neighboring communities offering assistance and resources.

The tragic EF3 tornado that tore through Boone and Marion Counties serves as a reminder of the destructive power of nature and the importance of preparedness in the face of such events. As the affected regions gradually recover, a collective spirit of strength and determination will undoubtedly guide their path to rebuilding and healing.

Stay tuned for further updates as the survey teams continue their assessments and provide additional information on the impact of this devastating tornado.