Tornado and Damaging Winds in California, May 1, 1995

Spotter reports of three-quarters inch hail prompted issuance of the Severe Thunderstorm Warning. While no reports of damage were received specifically, numerous automobile accidents occurred on urban Fresno streets resulting from standing water in heavy rain; 0.79 inches in 24 minutes. Radar showed reflectivity up to 69 dBZ in Madera. No monetary crop damage can be assessed to this particular storm although extensive damage has been done to local crops this unusually wet and violent spring.

A National Weather Service (NWS) survey team along with eyewitness accounts concluded a weak F0 tornado briefly occurred in the vicinity of the Fresno Fairgrounds. Light roof damage, a damaged car, and an uprooted tree were observed. The tornado was observed heading east but no other damage was reported in this vicinity. Roof damage estimated at $50 thousand. A "meso" was reported by Doppler Radar about the time of the event.

A National Weather Service survey team along with eyewitness accounts describe the damage path of high wind and hail from a severe thunderstorm through an area three miles wide and 19 miles long starting 15 miles east of Fresno. Numerous large, old oak trees were felled taking down power lines and in two instances falling on houses. Hail in excess of one inch also occurred and combined with the high wind caused major agricultural damage to this section of rural Fresno County. Toward the easternmost portion of the damage path the width had expanded to a little over five miles. This cell is likely the same one that supported 1745 PDT tornado activity at Fresno. Crop damage was extensive with nearly $17 million damage caused by hail/wind stripping trees of leaves and early fruit set of both deciduous and late citrus. Five head of livestock were also killed. Radar reflectivity reached 71 dBZ with this cell.

National Weather Service survey conducted with straightline winds causing damage approximately three miles from the northwest to the southeast into the City of Visalia. Trees toppled, lines downed, minor structures moved, fences downed, and roof damage occurred. Newspaper accounts gave the time of start by eyewitnesses at 1940 PDT. Radar indicated 60 dBZ prior to the storm but it is unknown if the cell got stronger at the time of this report. Radar information is believed to be archived.