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Weather Service: 2020 Was A ‘Devastating Year’ For Tennessee Tornadoes

Tony Gonzalez
/
Nashville Public Radio

Now that it’s over, Tennessee can officially say that 2020 was an abnormally active and “devastating year” for tornadoes.

The National Weather Service says 35 tornadoes struck the state, killing 27 people, injuring hundreds more and causing billions of dollars in damage.

Middle Tennessee saw the most activity, and 24 counties in all saw touchdowns.

 

Credit NWS Nashville

The strongest tornado was level EF-4 in Putnam County in March. That same storm created the EF-3 that tore through Davidson, Wilson and Smith counties.

In April, a storm of similar strength but shorter duration hit the Chattanooga area.

Tony Gonzalez oversees WPLN’s special projects, produces the Curious Nashville podcast, and edits freelance contributions. Since arriving in Nashville in 2011, he’s covered major breaking news, tapped into data and public records for civics stories, and featured inspiring people and unusual tales. He lives in East Nashville with his wife and daughter and dabbles in hobbies like juggling, gardening, and birdwatching.
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