A specialized team of engineers, experienced meteorologists, and other experts tasked with assessing tornado damage, especially when a tornado is suspected to exceed EF3 intensity (i.e., EF4 or EF5). In accordance with NWS policy, these teams include wind engineering experts to
help ensure accurate ratings for
high-end events. They are requested by
local NWS offices through their respective regional headquarters, which include the Western Region (WRH), Central Region (CRH), Southern Region (
SRH), and Eastern Region (ERH).
A regional NWS Quick Response Team (QRT) determined that this was an EF4 tornado, with a well-constructed home being swept clean from its
slab and its debris
broken into
small pieces and carried 50 to 200 yards.