Safety guides › The EF scale

What is the EF scale for tornadoes?

How tornadoes are rated, from EF0 to EF5, after the damage is surveyed.

Tornadoes are rated after they happen, by surveying the damage. The rating estimates the wind speed.

• EF0: 65–85 mph. Shingles off, branches down.
• EF1: 86–110 mph. Roofs badly stripped, mobile homes overturned.
• EF2: 111–135 mph. Roofs torn off houses, large trees snapped.
• EF3: 136–165 mph. Whole stories of houses destroyed.
• EF4: 166–200 mph. Well-built houses leveled.
• EF5: over 200 mph. Strong frame houses swept away.

Even an EF0 or EF1 can kill. Take every tornado warning seriously.

Source: Storm Prediction Center. Reviewed 2026-10-07.

This guide is general safety information. When a warning is issued for your area, follow the instructions from the National Weather Service and local officials.

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