February 2009 North American storm complex#Confirmed tornadoes

Early on February 10, 2009, a strong upper-level trough moved east from the Four Corners into the central and southern Great Plains by the afternoon and early evening hours.{{cite web|last=Peters|publisher=Storm Prediction Center|date=February 10, 2009|access-date=April 23, 2023|title=Feb 10, 2009 0600 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook|url=https://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/outlook/archive/2009/day1otlk_20090210_1200.html}} Temperatures across Texas and Oklahoma were unusually low antecedent to a severe weather outbreak, generally ranging from {{convert|30|to|50|F|C|abbr=on}}. Early morning fog moving northwest into Oklahoma signaled the arrival of low-level moisture into the region. Strong surface heating combined with cooler air aloft created an unstable atmosphere, a situation unusual in the region for February. In the afternoon hours, a shortwave trough moved from Arizona into Texas while a strong mid-level jet emanated from the Big Bend region.{{cite web|last=Hart|publisher=Storm Prediction Center|date=February 10, 2009|access-date=April 23, 2023|title=Feb 10, 2009 1630 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook|url=https://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/outlook/archive/2009/day1otlk_20090210_1630.html}} Daytime heating of the moistening boundary layer increased throughout the afternoon across Oklahoma and Texas as cloud cover shifted eastward. A very strong wind field increased with height through the lower troposphere, resulting in a wind shear favorable for rotation in the thunderstorms.

Meteorologists expected large hail stones and damaging winds, and recognized the potential for strong tornadoes as thunderstorms developed from central Oklahoma southward into north-central Texas in the afternoon. During the night, a cold front moved eastward toward the Mississippi Valley and organized the thunderstorms into a lengthy squall line. Along with a continued threat of hail and tornadoes, the risk of damaging winds increased.{{cite web|last=Goss| publisher =Storm Prediction Center| title =Severe Thunderstorms Expected Over Parts of the Southern Plains into the Mid and Lower Mississippi Valley this Afternoon and Tonight| date =February 10, 2009| url=http://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/outlook/archive/2009/pwo_200902101717.html | access-date =April 23, 2023}} The Storm Prediction Center announced a "moderate risk" of severe weather for portions of eastern Oklahoma, northeastern Texas, western Arkansas, and northwestern Louisiana.

Around 19:00 UTC, a line of thunderstorms began developing near the Wichita Mountains in Comanche County, Oklahoma. One supercell originating there produced five tornadoes from Canadian County in the Oklahoma City metropolitan area to Pawnee County. One of these was rated EF2 when it struck western areas of Edmond. The most significant tornado originated in Montague County, Texas at 00:48 UTC. It quickly crossed the Red River into Oklahoma and moved through predominantly rural areas, ultimately striking Lone Grove at EF4 intensity. Severe damage took place in the town and eight people were killed. In addition to the five Oklahoma tornadoes, three tornadoes struck northern sections of Texas and one tornado hit Springfield, Missouri.{{cite web|first=Melissa |last=Crowe |publisher=Dallas Morning News |date=February 13, 2009 |access-date=February 24, 2009 |title=Weather Service confirms 2 more tornadoes hit North Texas |url=http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/news/localnews/stories/021409dnmetweather.109cec41.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090218134639/http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/news/localnews/stories/021409dnmetweather.109cec41.html |archive-date=February 18, 2009 }}{{cite web|first=Natalie |last=Swallow |publisher=KSPR |date=February 11, 2009 |access-date=February 24, 2009 |title=Commerce Bank Hit by EF-1 Tornado |url=http://www.kspr.com/news/local/39445072.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090214151100/http://www.kspr.com/news/local/39445072.html |archive-date=February 14, 2009 }}

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{{Gallery

|title=Storm Prediction Center's graphical outlooks for February 10–11, 2009

|align=center

|File:Day1otlk 20090210 1200 prt.png

|alt1=A map of the US with a region labeled "MDT", centered around the southeast tip of Oklahoma, which covers most of Arkansas and reaches the centers of Oklahoma and Texas. It is surrounded by a larger region labeled "SLGT" reaching from the Gulf of Mexico through Missouri, and by an even larger, unlabeled region that reaches Lake Michigan. All regions' edges have clockwise arrows.

|February 10 convective outlook graphic issued at 06:00 UTC

|File:Storm Prediction Center Wind Outlook February 10, 2009, at 16z.gif

|alt2=

|February 10 probabilistic damaging wind graphic issued at 16:00 UTC

|File:Storm Prediction Center Convective Outlook February 11, 2009, at 20z.gif

|alt3=

|February 11 convective outlook graphic issued at 20:00 UTC

|File:Storm Prediction Center Wind Outlook February 11, 2009, at 20z.gif

|alt4=

|February 11 probabilistic damaging wind graphic issued at 20:00 UTC

}}

Concurrent with the strong upper-level trough tracking northeastward, the threat for organized severe weather shifted eastward into the Ohio River Valley on February 11, where the Storm Prediction Center issued a Slight risk across much of the region.{{cite web|title=Feb 11, 2009 0600 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook|url=https://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/outlook/archive/2009/day1otlk_20090211_1200.html|publisher=Storm Prediction Center|date=February 11, 2009|access-date=April 27, 2023}} Very strong wind fields, including mid-level winds upwards of {{convert|115|kn|mph km/h|abbr=on|round=5}}, overspread the risk area.{{cite web|title=Mesoscale Discussion 104|url=https://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/md/2009/md0104.html|publisher=Storm Prediction Center|date=February 11, 2009|access-date=April 27, 2023}} Strong forcing along an eastward-moving cold front combined with those wind fields led to the persistence of a low-topped squall line despite little instability ahead of the convection.{{cite web|title=Mesoscale Discussion 99|url=https://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/md/2009/md0099.html|publisher=Storm Prediction Center|date=February 11, 2009|access-date=April 27, 2023}} Widespread sunshine developed ahead of the squall line throughout the afternoon hours, increasing the potential for strong winds aloft to be transferred to the surface. As such, the Storm Prediction Center raised the threat level to a Moderate risk across portions of Kentucky, Ohio, and West Virginia for widespread and potentially significant damaging winds. The organization would ultimately receive over 350 reports of damaging winds on February 11, including a peak gust of {{convert|85|kn|mph km/h|abbr=on|round=5}} near Belle, West Virginia.{{cite web|title=SPC Storm Reports for 02/11/09|url=https://www.spc.noaa.gov/climo/reports/090211_rpts.html|publisher=Storm Prediction Center|date=February 11, 2009|access-date=April 27, 2023}} By the evening hours, the squall line encountered cooler surface temperatures and became increasingly separated from the powerful upper-level trough, and it lost its vigor moving through the Mid-Atlantic region.{{cite web|title=Mesoscale Discussion 107|url=https://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/md/2009/md0107.html|publisher=Storm Prediction Center|date=February 11, 2009|access-date=April 27, 2023}}

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File:Tornado Watch 10 2009.gif

During the evening of February 10, a long line of severe thunderstorms developed along the tail-end of a cold front in central Texas. Meteorologists predicted embedded supercell thunderstorms that could produce hail up to {{convert|2.5|in|cm}} in diameter and wind gusts up to {{convert|90|mph|km/h|abbr=on}}.{{cite web|publisher=Storm Prediction Center|date=February 10, 2009|access-date=May 11, 2009|title=Tornado Watch 12|url=http://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/watch/ww0012.html}} North of the squall line, bow echo thunderstorms developed in Missouri, causing widespread wind damage.{{cite web|publisher=Storm Prediction Center|date=February 11, 2009|access-date=May 11, 2009|title=Mesoscale Discussion 97|url=http://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/md/md0097.html}} By the morning of February 11, the squall line reached as far southeast as eastern Louisiana, where winds were recorded in excess of {{convert|70|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} along with hail up to {{convert|1|in|cm}} in diameter.{{cite web|publisher=Storm Prediction Center|date=February 11, 2009|access-date=May 11, 2009|title=Tornado Watch 15|url=http://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/watch/ww0015.html}} Around 12 pm EST (17:00 UTC), the first line of thunderstorms significantly weakened, but a new, narrow line developed in eastern Kentucky and Tennessee.{{cite web|publisher=Storm Prediction Center|date=February 11, 2009|access-date=May 11, 2009|title=Tornado Watch 16|url=http://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/watch/ww0016.html}} A strong, deep layer wind field prevented a number of tornadoes from forming but instead caused widespread wind damage.{{cite web|publisher=Storm Prediction Center|date=February 11, 2009|access-date=May 11, 2009|title=Mesoscale Discussion 100|url=http://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/md/md0100.html}} Throughout the day, the line of low-topped thunderstorms continued eastward, reaching Ohio and West Virginia by 4 pm EST (21:00 UTC).{{cite web|publisher=Storm Prediction Center|date=February 11, 2009|access-date=May 11, 2009|title=Severe Thunderstorm Watch 19|url=http://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/watch/ww0019.html}} Several hours later, the line broke apart, with the strongest storms tracking through Pennsylvania.{{cite web|publisher=Storm Prediction Center|date=February 11, 2009|access-date=May 11, 2009|title=Severe Thunderstorm Watch 21|url=http://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/watch/ww0021.html}} By February 12, rain showers, accompanied by high winds up to {{convert|60|mph|km/h|abbr=on}}, affected most of the Northeastern United States.{{cite web|author=Federal Emergency Management Agency |publisher=Federal government of the United States |date=February 12, 2009 |access-date=May 11, 2009 |title=National Situation Update: Thursday, February 12, 2009 |url=http://www.fema.gov/emergency/reports/2009/nat021209.shtm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090507033052/http://www.fema.gov/emergency/reports/2009/nat021209.shtm |archive-date=May 7, 2009 }} The large-scale damaging wind event left an estimated $1.7 billion (2009 USD) in losses.{{cite web|publisher=National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration|access-date=April 23, 2023|title=[Billion-Dollar Weather and Climate Disasters in 2009]|url=https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/billions/events/US/2009?disasters[]=all-disasters}}

In addition to the strong tornadoes, Oklahoma was affected by high winds and large hail. The largest hailstones were observed in Okesa at {{convert|4.5|in|cm}} in diameter. Numerous cars were hit and several houses sustained roof damage; the cost of the hail damage was estimated at $100,000. Heavy rains produced by the storms also caused isolated flooding, inundating numerous streets. A lightning bolt struck an oil tank, igniting a fire.{{cite web|publisher=National Centers for Environmental Information|year=2009|access-date=April 18, 2023|title=Storm Data and Unusual Weather Phenomena with Late Reports and Corrections|url=https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/pub/orders/IPS/IPS-853086A8-E3C2-4872-8CC8-E70C66B50CB3.pdf|archive-date=April 19, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230419003511/https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/pub/orders/IPS/IPS-853086A8-E3C2-4872-8CC8-E70C66B50CB3.pdf|issn=0039-1972|volume=51}}{{rp|177}} The most significant wind damage occurred in Atoka and Coal counties where winds up to {{convert|70|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} destroyed two mobile homes, several barns, and outbuildings.{{rp|186–187}} Gusts peaked at {{convert|81|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} in McIntosh and Pawnee counties.{{rp|176}} Throughout the state, an estimated 61,000 people lost power: 29,000 lost power due to thunderstorms and 32,000 due to tornadoes.

File:02102009 1.radarloop Mineola tornado.gif loop of a severe thunderstorm near Mineola, Texas]]

Strong straight-line winds of {{convert|70|–|80|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} caused significant damage in Hamilton County, Texas. Barns, sheds, and outbuildings were destroyed with some having debris strewn {{convert|1.5|mi|km|abbr=on}} downstream. Several mobile homes near Hamilton sustained damage after tree limbs fell on them. In Huron, several outbuildings were damaged or destroyed and a permanent building was damaged at a youth retreat center.{{cite web|agency=Associated Press|work=Houston Chronicle|date=February 12, 2009|access-date=February 13, 2009|title=National Weather Service Completes Central Texas Storm Survey|url=http://www.kwtx.com/weather/headlines/39489837.html|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090221070721/http://www.kwtx.com/weather/headlines/39489837.html|archive-date=February 21, 2009}} An estimated 15,000 residences were without power following the storms in Texas.{{cite web|first=Bryan |last=Rupp |publisher=KBMT |date=February 11, 2009 |access-date=February 13, 2009 |title=Severe Thunderstorms & Tornadoes Rip Across Texas |url=http://www.kbmt12.com/news/local/39444437.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090212175901/http://www.kbmt12.com/news/local/39444437.html |archive-date=February 12, 2009 }} Three people were injured in McGregor when their home was destroyed.{{cite web|first=Erin |last=Quinn |work=Waco Tribune-Herald |date=February 12, 2009 |access-date=February 13, 2009 |title=Storms rip through Central Texas, damaging homes, uprooting trees |url=http://www.wacotrib.com/news/content/news/stories/2009/02/12/02122009wacstormfollow.html?imw=Y |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090215011419/http://www.wacotrib.com/news/content/news/stories/2009/02/12/02122009wacstormfollow.html?imw=Y |url-status=dead |archive-date=February 15, 2009 }}

In Arkansas, high winds produced by the squall line knocked out power to 315,324 residences and caused widespread structural damage. Trees and power lines were brought down in eight counties, and several homes in Independence and Van Buren County sustained damage.{{rp|27–28}} Winds estimated at {{convert|80|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} in Van Buren blew a barn onto AR 9. Hundreds of trees were blown down, many of which fell on homes.{{rp|27}} Winds estimated up to {{convert|85|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} caused extensive damage to homes, primarily from fallen trees, and injured three people.{{rp|28}} In Conway County, a sawmill and two barns were destroyed, while several homes and a church also sustained damage.{{rp|26}} Damaging straight-line winds affected northwestern Louisiana, downing many trees and power lines. Several homes were damaged by fallen trees in Shreveport.{{rp|124–126}} Approximately 12,000 residences lost power in the state.

In Missouri, high winds caused widespread damage and knocked out power to 7,629 residences. Several homes and businesses lost their windows due to {{convert|65|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} wind gusts produced within squall lines.{{cite web| publisher =Storm Prediction Center| title =20090210's Storm Report| date =February 20, 2009| url=http://www.spc.noaa.gov/climo/reports/090210_rpts.html | access-date =February 24, 2009}} Flooding and high winds in Michigan knocked out power to about 57,000 residences.{{cite web|agency=Associated Press|publisher=MLive.com|date=February 12, 2009|access-date=February 13, 2009|title=Downside of warmth: Snowmelt raises river levels|url=http://www.mlive.com/news/index.ssf/2009/02/downside_of_warmth_snowmelt_ra.html}} In southern Michigan, upwards of {{convert|0.8|in|cm}} of rain fell, leading to faster snowmelt.{{cite web|first=Brandon |last=Hoving |publisher=National Weather Service in Grand Rapids, Michigan |date=March 2009 |access-date=May 12, 2009 |title=February 2009 Climate Summary for Southwest Lower Michigan |url=http://www.crh.noaa.gov/images/grr/climate/CS200902.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111122202515/http://www.crh.noaa.gov/images/grr/climate/CS200902.pdf |archive-date=November 22, 2011 }}

A tight pressure gradient behind the cold front produced strong winds across portions of Indiana and Illinois, with many areas seeing sustained winds of {{convert|35|to|45|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} with gusts up to {{convert|70|mph|km/h|abbr=on}}.{{cite web|agency=National Weather Service Forecast Office in Indianapolis, Indiana|publisher=National Centers for Environmental Information|year=2009|access-date=April 23, 2023|title=[Indiana Event Report: High Wind]|url=https://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/stormevents/eventdetails.jsp?id=150264}} Heavy rain, warmer temperatures, and snow melt contributed to saturated grounds.{{rp|83}} In the town of Carmel, a total of {{convert|2.75|in|mm}} of rain fell.{{rp|82}} The combination of these factors swelled the Wabash River, leading to widespread flooding of low-lying areas.{{rp|83}} The river remained above flood-stage through February 23. Floods affected portions of Fountain, Parke, Sullivan, Tippecanoe, Vermillion, Vigo, and Warren counties.{{rp|83–85}} In southwestern counties, the White River reached nearly {{convert|4|ft|m|abbr=on}} above flood-stage, inundating low-lying areas and some roads. The river remained above flood-stage through February 22. Flood gates were erected in Hazleton as water reached a local sports field.{{rp|94}} Non-thunderstorm wind gusts peaked at an estimated {{convert|80|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} in Crawford and Tippecanoe counties;{{cite web|agency=National Weather Service Forecast Office in Indianapolis, Indiana|publisher=National Centers for Environmental Information|year=2009|access-date=April 23, 2023|title=[Indiana Event Report: High Wind]|url=https://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/stormevents/eventdetails.jsp?id=157034}}{{cite web|agency=National Weather Service Forecast Office in Indianapolis, Indiana|publisher=National Centers for Environmental Information|year=2009|access-date=April 23, 2023|title=[Indiana Event Report: High Wind]|url=https://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/stormevents/eventdetails.jsp?id=155192}} the highest measured value was {{convert|73|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} in Hamilton County.{{cite web|agency=National Weather Service Forecast Office in Indianapolis, Indiana|publisher=National Centers for Environmental Information|year=2009|access-date=April 23, 2023|title=[Indiana Event Report: High Wind]|url=https://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/stormevents/eventdetails.jsp?id=157191}} In Tippecanoe County, several homes had shingles and siding blown off and fallen trees blocked roads.{{cite news|newspaper=Journal and Courier|first=Bob|last=Scott|date=February 13, 2009|title=Picking up after the storm|via=Newspapers.com}} {{free access}}

• [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/123394044/ C1]
• [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/123394096/ C3] Winds in southwestern Indiana damaged power lines weakened from the ice storm in late January.{{rp|94}} A total of 14,590 residences lost power in Indiana. Several large trees were brought down by high winds, one of which fell on a home in South Bend.

A total of 70,695 residences lost power in Illinois. Rainfall up to {{convert|4|in|mm}} fell throughout most of the state. Several major roadways were covered in flood waters. The Little Wabash River overflowed its banks and inundated nearby roads.{{rp|78}} Elevated waters along the Wabash River in Indiana traveled south into Illinois by February 13, with Wabash and White counties experiencing flooding. The river crested at {{convert|24.86|ft|m|abbr=on}} in Mount Carmel, nearly {{convert|5|ft|m|abbr=on}} above flood-stage on February 19.{{rp|81}} Strong winds on the backside of the cold front affected large portions of the state, with gusts generally reaching {{convert|50|to|60|mph|km/h|abbr=on}}. Some minor damage resulted from these winds.{{rp|79}}

In Ohio, {{convert|70|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} wind gusts led to a highway accident that killed a truck driver. The high winds also caused significant damage throughout the state.{{cite news|first=Polly |last=Anderson |agency=Associated Press |date=February 12, 2009 |access-date=February 13, 2009 |title=Winds knock out power to thousands in Great Lakes |url=http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5ghH5omeaHO6W-xMCq3b7BMHhaeVQD96A7LL00 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20240524082134/https://www.webcitation.org/5eYBT7aWw?url=http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5ghH5omeaHO6W-xMCq3b7BMHhaeVQD96A7LL00 |archive-date=May 24, 2024 }} Heavy rains produced by the same system inundated several streets in flood-prone towns in Ohio. In Scioto County, the high winds destroyed a brick house and brought down power lines.{{cite web|first=Stuart |last=Hinson |publisher=National Climatic Data Center |year=2009 |access-date=June 3, 2009 |title=Ohio Event Report: Thunderstorm Winds (749316) |url=http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~ShowEvent~749316 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120805212630/http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~ShowEvent~749316 |url-status=dead |archive-date=August 5, 2012 }} The most significant damage resulted from the strong pressure gradient behind the frontal system. Thousands of tree were knocked down or uprooted by winds gusting in excess of {{convert|75|mph|km/h|abbr=on}},{{cite web|first=Stuart |last=Hinson |publisher=National Climatic Data Center |year=2009 |access-date=June 3, 2009 |title=Ohio Event Report: High Winds (749765) |url=http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~ShowEvent~749765 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120805203824/http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~ShowEvent~749765 |url-status=dead |archive-date=August 5, 2012 }} cutting power to 585,775 residences. Ten railroad cars were knocked off their tracks near Shelby. Several hundred homes lost shingles and gutters due to the winds. Wind also overturned two semi-trailers, though the drivers of both vehicles were unharmed. A vacant school building in Epworth lost its entire roof.{{cite web|first=Stuart |last=Hinson |publisher=National Climatic Data Center |year=2009 |access-date=June 3, 2009 |title=Ohio Event Report: High Winds (750622) |url=http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~ShowEvent~750622 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120805222738/http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~ShowEvent~750622 |url-status=dead |archive-date=August 5, 2012 }} Some windows were damaged or broken by flying debris or fallen trees. Power outages forced numerous schools to close for at least two days following the storm.{{cite web|first=Stuart |last=Hinson |publisher=National Climatic Data Center |year=2009 |access-date=June 3, 2009 |title=Ohio Event Report: High Winds (749744) |url=http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~ShowEvent~749744 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120806001350/http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~ShowEvent~749744 |url-status=dead |archive-date=August 6, 2012 }} A large barn was leveled just north of Brighton in Lorain County by {{convert|64|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} winds.{{cite web|first=Stuart |last=Hinson |publisher=National Climatic Data Center |year=2009 |access-date=June 3, 2009 |title=Ohio Event Report: High Winds (749746) |url=http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~ShowEvent~749746 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120805194919/http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~ShowEvent~749746 |url-status=dead |archive-date=August 5, 2012 }} Throughout the state, damages from the storm system amounted to $4.7 million.{{cite web|first=Stuart |last=Hinson |publisher=National Climatic Data Center |year=2009 |access-date=June 3, 2009 |title=NCDC Event Reports |url=http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~storms |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090509142712/http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwEvent~Storms |archive-date=May 9, 2009 }}

Hurricane-force wind gusts up to {{convert|92|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} caused significant damage and power losses in Pennsylvania. Throughout the state, at least 400,000 residences lost power due to the winds. Allegheny Power stated that the loss of power due to this system was the largest ever experienced by the company. Thousands of trees and power lines were brought down by strong winds and numerous homes sustained significant damage. Although most of the damage to homes consisted of shingle damage, several homes lost gutters and had portions of their siding blown off.{{cite web|first=Stuart |last=Hinson |publisher=National Climatic Data Center |year=2009 |access-date=June 3, 2009 |title=Pennsylvania Event Report: High Winds (750599) |url=http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~ShowEvent~750599 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120806001014/http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~ShowEvent~750599 |url-status=dead |archive-date=August 6, 2012 }} In Pottstown, a large portion of the roof of a four-story building was blown off, forcing residents to evacuate the building. An {{convert|18|ft|m|adj=on|abbr=on}} pillar was knocked down at the First Moravian Church in Easton. In Northampton County, a fire sparked by fallen power lines destroyed a barn and partially melted a nearby metal shed. The blaze was fully contained by 40 firefighters. Another fire sparked by fallen power lines destroyed a garage in Lower Merion Township. In Philadelphia, the roof of a portable classroom began to peel off, forcing the forty students inside to evacuate to a safer structure. A large tree fell through one house and severely damaged the roof of a nearby home. Numerous major highways and local streets were shut down for several hours to allow cleanup crews to clear debris.{{cite web|first=Stuart |last=Hinson |publisher=National Climatic Data Center |year=2009 |access-date=June 3, 2009 |title=Pennsylvania Event Report: High Winds (749729) |url=http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~ShowEvent~749729 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120806000424/http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~ShowEvent~749729 |url-status=dead |archive-date=August 6, 2012 }} Throughout the state, damages from the storm system amounted to $3.7 million.

In upstate New York, winds in excess of {{convert|50|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} shattered windows, toppled numerous trees, and brought down power lines, cutting power to more than 50,000 residences.{{cite web|first=Melissa |last=Holmes |publisher=WIVB-TV |date=February 12, 2009 |access-date=February 13, 2009 |title=50,000 households without power in WNY |url=http://www.wivb.com/dpp/news/50000_households_without_power_in_WNY_20090212 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090215181953/http://www.wivb.com/dpp/news/50000_households_without_power_in_WNY_20090212 |archive-date=February 15, 2009 }}{{cite web|first=Jericka |last=Duncan |publisher=WIVB-TV |date=February 12, 2009 |access-date=May 12, 2009 |title=50 mph winds create huge mess |url=http://www.wivb.com/dpp/news/50_mph_winds_create_huge_mess_20090212 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090217101441/http://www.wivb.com/dpp/news/50_mph_winds_create_huge_mess_20090212 |archive-date=February 17, 2009 }} Unseasonably warm temperatures and heavy rains from the storm system increased the snowmelt rate in northern areas of the state. In Genesee County, an estimated {{convert|2|to|5|in|cm}} of the snowpack melted, triggering flash floods along several rivers. The Tonawanda Creek reached a height of {{convert|14.38|ft|m|abbr=on}}, {{convert|2.38|ft|m|abbr=on}} above flood stage. Several homes were inundated by flood waters throughout the region.{{cite web|first=Stuart |last=Hinson |publisher=National Climatic Data Center |year=2009 |access-date=June 3, 2009 |title=New York Event Report: Flood (748477) |url=http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~ShowEvent~748477 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120805201007/http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~ShowEvent~748477 |url-status=dead |archive-date=August 5, 2012 }} In all, 84,624 residences lost power in New York State. The storm system continued producing gusty winds through February 12, which caused tree damage and power outages, and killed a construction worker in the New York City metropolitan area.{{cite web|agency=Associated Press |publisher=WCBS |date=February 12, 2009 |access-date=February 12, 2009 |title=Three Deaths Blamed on Winds |url=http://www.wcbs880.com/Violent-Winds-Blamed-for-3-Deaths/3840703 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090216201156/http://www.wcbs880.com/Violent-Winds-Blamed-for-3-Deaths/3840703 |archive-date=February 16, 2009 }} The construction worker was killed after a cinder block wall collapsed due to high-winds. Winds in the city gusted to {{convert|65|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} in the Bronx. Throughout Long Island, an estimated 4,000 people lost power.{{cite web|first=Stuart |last=Hinson |publisher=National Climatic Data Center |year=2009 |access-date=June 3, 2009 |title=New York Event Report: High Winds (749739) |url=http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~ShowEvent~749739 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120805233537/http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~ShowEvent~749739 |url-status=dead |archive-date=August 5, 2012 }}

In New Jersey, strong winds gusted up to {{convert|55|mph|km/h|abbr=on}}, bringing down tree limbs that killed two people.{{cite web|agency=Associated Press |publisher=WNYW |date=February 12, 2009 |access-date=February 19, 2009 |title=High Winds Blamed for 2 Deaths in New Jersey |url=http://www.myfoxny.com/dpp/news/local_news/new_jersey/090212_High_Winds_Blamed_for_2_Deaths_in_New_Jersey |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090214154411/http://www.myfoxny.com/dpp/news/local_news/new_jersey/090212_High_Winds_Blamed_for_2_Deaths_in_New_Jersey |archive-date=February 14, 2009 }} A total of 93,816 residences were also left without power at the height of the storm. High winds on the backside of the storm brought down a power line that sparked a small fire in Galloway Township, burning a total of {{convert|40|acres}}.{{cite web|first=Stuart |last=Hinson |publisher=National Climatic Data Center |year=2009 |access-date=June 3, 2009 |title=New Jersey Event Report: Wildfire (748827) |url=http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~ShowEvent~748827 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120805194250/http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~ShowEvent~748827 |url-status=dead |archive-date=August 5, 2012 }} A total of 8,486 Connecticut residences were left without power after high winds damaged numerous power lines and tree limbs. Downed wires delayed Metro-North service on the New Haven Line.{{cite news|newspaper=Connecticut Post|first=Steve|last=Kobak|date=February 11, 2009|access-date=April 23, 2023|title=Heavy winds wreak havoc in Norwalk|url=https://www.ctpost.com/norwalk/article/Heavy-winds-wreak-havoc-in-Norwalk-8271256.php}} In Massachusetts, gusts up to {{convert|55|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} brought down several trees and cut power to residences in Middleborough, Boston, Brookline and Hingham.{{cite web|author= |work=The Boston Globe |date=February 12, 2009 |access-date=May 12, 2009 |title=50-mph winds sweep the state |url=http://www.boston.com/news/local/breaking_news/2009/02/strong_winds_ex.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090215174359/http://boston.com/news/local/breaking_news/2009/02/strong_winds_ex.html |archive-date=February 15, 2009 }} The Western Massachusetts Electric Company reported that at least 360 residences lost power during the storm.{{cite web|first=George |last=Grahm |work=The Republican |date=February 13, 2009 |access-date=May 12, 2009 |title=Gusty morning brings power outages to Western Massachusetts |url=http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2009/02/gusty_morning_brings_power_out.html?category=Weather |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170810131642/http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2009/02/gusty_morning_brings_power_out.html?category=Weather |archive-date=August 10, 2017 }} Westerly winds and enhanced moisture from lakes led to {{convert|3|to|6|in|cm|abbr=on}} of snow falling in parts of The Berkshires.{{rp|132}}

In Mississippi, strong winds on the backside of the cold front blew a metal roof off a power company building, bringing down several trees and power lines.{{rp|138, 144}} Progressing into Alabama, the initial squall line brought locally severe thunderstorms with a peak gust of {{convert|75|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} near Cherokee. Some areas saw trees downed and homes damaged. The more significant effects resulted from the pressure gradient winds on the backside of the storm, with widespread damaging winds. Trees were downed in many areas, some of which caused power outages, and a few homes had roof damage.{{rp|11–12}} Three people were trapped in their apartment in Florence when a tree fell on the building.{{cite web|agency=National Weather Service Forecast Office in Huntsville, Alabama|publisher=National Centers for Environmental Information|year=2009|access-date=April 23, 2023|title=[Alabama Event Report: High Wind]|url=https://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/stormevents/eventdetails.jsp?id=146557}} A downed power line sparked a fire that burned {{convert|15|acre|hectare|abbr=on}} a few miles southwest of Leighton.{{cite web|agency=National Weather Service Forecast Office in Huntsville, Alabama|publisher=National Centers for Environmental Information|year=2009|access-date=April 23, 2023|title=[Alabama Event Report: High Wind]|url=https://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/stormevents/eventdetails.jsp?id=147099}} At least 8,300 customers lost power in various parts of the state.{{cite web|agency=National Weather Service Forecast Office in Huntsville, Alabama|publisher=National Centers for Environmental Information|year=2009|access-date=April 23, 2023|title=[Alabama Event Report: High Wind]|url=https://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/stormevents/eventdetails.jsp?id=147100}}

• {{cite web|agency=National Weather Service Forecast Office in Huntsville, Alabama|publisher=National Centers for Environmental Information|year=2009|access-date=April 23, 2023|title=[Alabama Event Report: High Wind]|url=https://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/stormevents/eventdetails.jsp?id=147104}}
• {{cite web|agency=National Weather Service Forecast Office in Huntsville, Alabama|publisher=National Centers for Environmental Information|year=2009|access-date=April 23, 2023|title=[Alabama Event Report: High Wind]|url=https://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/stormevents/eventdetails.jsp?id=147106}} In Huntsville, a car carrying four people lost control on rain-slicked roads and crashed into a van, killing one of the occupants and injuring the other three.{{cite web|first=Niki|last=Doyle|work=The Huntsville Times|date=February 11, 2009|access-date=May 11, 2009|title=State troopers identify man killed in Old Big Cove Road wreck|url=http://blog.al.com/breaking/2009/02/state_troopers_identify_man_ki.html}} Effects in Georgia were largely limited to scattered instances of downed trees and power lines across northern and central parts of the state. Peak gusts were estimated at {{convert|58|mph|km/h|abbr=on}}.{{rp|52–54, 68}}

Winds of {{convert|55|to|65|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} affected the majority of Kentucky, resulting in extensive power outages.{{rp|122–123}} A total of 161,588 residences lost power, exacerbating the effects of an ice storm two weeks earlier. Numerous counties reported downed trees and some structural damage, mainly from the fallen trees.{{rp|122}} A peak gust of {{convert|73|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} was recorded at Owensboro–Daviess County Regional Airport in western Kentucky. At least 2,500 homes suffered some degree of damage in southwestern Kentucky. Several homes had their roof torn off in Cadiz and two brick buildings collapsed in Morganfield.{{rp|123}} In eastern Kentucky, approximately 90 percent of Williamsburg lost power; five homes lost their roof in the city.{{rp|113}} One fatality occurred in Kentucky when a utility worker was knocked over by high winds and fell {{convert|30|ft|m|abbr=on}} to his death while trying to restore power.{{cite web|agency=Associated Press|work=The Post-Standard|date=February 12, 2009|access-date=May 12, 2009|title=Winds knock out power to thousands on East Coast|url=http://www.syracuse.com/news/index.ssf/2009/02/winds_knock_out_power_to_thous.html}} Widespread damage to trees occurred across most of Tennessee as the storm moved through, with Central Tennessee and East Tennessee being more severely affected. Many areas estimated or measured winds in excess of {{convert|60|mph|km/h|abbr=on}}, with peak gusts estimated at {{convert|86|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} near Collinwood and Lawrenceburg. Mostly minor damage to homes was reported in multiple counties; some had their roof significantly damaged. Widespread power outages occurred,{{rp|201–212}} with a total of 74,052 residences losing service. In Collinwood, the doors and roofs of three dry kilns at a Hughes Hardwood were blown in or torn off.{{rp|201}} Several brush and structure fires ignited during the storm in Washington County were worsened by the winds, one of which destroyed two buildings.{{cite news|newspaper=Johnson City Press|first=Becky|last=Campbell|date=February 12, 2009|title=brush, structure fires keep area firefighters busy|via=Newspapers.com}} {{free access}}

• [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/123410647/ 1A]
• [https://www.newspapers.com/clip/123410714/ 5A]

One person was killed by high winds in Davy, West Virginia when a gymnasium roof collapsed.{{cite web|title=UPDATE: McDowell Storm Victim Identified |publisher=WVNS-TV |date=February 12, 2009 |url=http://www.wvnstv.com/story.cfm?func=viewstory&storyid=51990 |access-date=February 13, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110718123153/http://www.wvnstv.com/story.cfm?func=viewstory&storyid=51990 |archive-date=July 18, 2011 }} Throughout the state, power was knocked out to an estimated 225,000 residences.{{cite web|first=Rick|last=Steelhammer|work=The Charleston Gazette|date=February 13, 2009|access-date=February 13, 2009|title=Parts of West Virginia still in dark|url=http://wvgazette.com/News/200902120809|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090214150627/http://wvgazette.com/News/200902120809|archive-date=February 14, 2009}} In Montgomery County, Virginia, winds knocked down power lines which sparked two brush fires, one of which burned a total of {{convert|12|acres}}.{{cite news|first=Ashley |last=Halsey III|author2=Chris Twarowski|newspaper=The Washington Post|date=February 13, 2009|access-date=February 13, 2009|title=Rockville Smacked With 65 MPH Gusts|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/story/2009/02/12/ST2009021200794.html}} Winds up to {{convert|65|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} cut power to 28,059 residences in the state. The strong winds also cut power to 50,820 residences in Maryland.

File:Fentress EF1 TN tornado damage 2009.jpg

In the wake of the tornado outbreak, law enforcement officers, including 30 National Guard troops, were sent to Lone Grove to assist with rescue efforts.{{cite web|first=Barbara |last=Hoberock|work=Tulsa World|date=February 11, 2009|access-date=February 23, 2009|title=Henry: Federal officials have pledged aid|url=http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/article.aspx?subjectid=12&articleid=20090211_12_0_OKLAHO324835|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120303131516/http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/article.aspx?subjectid=12&articleid=20090211_12_0_OKLAHO324835|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 3, 2012}} The American Red Cross opened shelters in Ardmore, Edmond, and Oklahoma City. About 100 volunteers from the Sorghum Mill Estates Neighborhood Association traveled to affected areas in Edmond to help with cleanup efforts. A local restaurant provided free meals to the volunteers as they assisted relief workers. The Salvation Army had two canteens in Oklahoma City, one in Lone Grove, and one in Perkins. About 2,000 meals, drinks, and snacks were provided by the Salvation Army to emergency responders. Feed the Children sent two truckloads of relief supplies to Carter County.{{cite web|first=Marsha|last=Miller|work=The Daily Ardmoreite|date=February 12, 2009|access-date=February 23, 2009|title=Disaster relief pouring into Lone Grove|url=http://www.ardmoreite.com/homepage/x114015871/Disaster-relief-pouring-into-Lone-Grove|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090215002423/http://www.ardmoreite.com/homepage/x114015871/Disaster-relief-pouring-into-Lone-Grove|archive-date=February 15, 2009}} They also sent three food trucks, containing a total of 619 meals, 900 drinks, and about 500 snacks, to Ardmore.{{cite web|author=|publisher=Salvation Army|date=February 12, 2009|access-date=February 23, 2009|title=Ardmore, Oklahoma Salvation Army Continues Relief Efforts|url=http://www.usc.salvationarmy.org/usc/www_usc.nsf/vw-news-34/AB732783985ADBEA8625755B0076C50C?opendocument|archive-date=July 22, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110722014352/http://www.usc.salvationarmy.org/usc/www_usc.nsf/vw-news-34/AB732783985ADBEA8625755B0076C50C?opendocument|url-status=dead}} On February 22, the New Life Baptist Church sent drinks and prepackaged snacks, along with items needed for clean-up.{{cite web|first=Krista |last=Flasch |publisher=KJRH |date=February 22, 2009 |access-date=February 23, 2009 |title=Church sends supplies to Lone Grove |url=http://www.kjrh.com/content/news/2viewgc/story/Church-sends-supplies-to-Lone-Grove/oQ5Rc1fohku6ybi6HXY0pQ.cspx }}{{dead link|date=June 2016|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}} Baptist Disaster Relief assisted in Lone Grove with food and emotional care.{{cite press release| title =February 11, 2009 – 9:30 a.m. – Situation Update 3| publisher =State of Oklahoma| date =February 11, 2008| url =http://www.ok.gov/OEM/Emergencies_&_Disasters/2009/Severe_Weather_Event_20090210_-_Master/Severe_Weather_Event_20090210-3.html| access-date =February 13, 2008 }} The Oklahoma City Thunder of the National Basketball Association (NBA) gave away two tickets to anyone who made a donation of $25 or an equivalent amount of food to benefit victims of the tornado.{{cite web|agency=Associated Press|work=USA Today|date=February 13, 2009|access-date=February 13, 2009|title=Thunder give away tickets to benefit victims|url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/basketball/nba/2009-02-13-4104518692_x.htm}} A concert featuring Chris Cagle and other local musicians at Heritage Hall in Ardmore raised over $18,000 to benefit Carter County tornado victims.{{cite web|author=Brandy|work=The Oklahoman|date=March 13, 2009|access-date=March 20, 2009|title=Chris Cagle to play Carter County tornado benefit|url=http://blog.newsok.com/bamsblog/2009/03/13/chris-cagle-to-play-carter-county-tornado-benefit/|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120707010313/http://blog.newsok.com/bamsblog/2009/03/13/chris-cagle-to-play-carter-county-tornado-benefit/|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 7, 2012}}{{cite web|author=KXII-TV Staff|publisher=KXII|date=March 16, 2009|access-date=March 20, 2009|title=Benefit concerts raise over $20,000 for Carter Co. tornado victims|url=http://www.kxii.com/news/headlines/41340222.html|archive-date=March 21, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090321065157/http://www.kxii.com/news/headlines/41340222.html|url-status=dead}} Another concert set up by the Salvation Army raised $2,300 more for victims.

The Governor of Oklahoma Brad Henry declared a State of Emergency in 17 counties and described the outbreak as the worst natural disaster he had seen since becoming governor.{{cite web|first=Breanne |last=Palmerini |publisher=KJRH |date=February 12, 2009 |access-date=February 13, 2009 |title=Governor Henry tours tornado damage |url=http://www.kjrh.com/content/news/2viewgc/story/Governor-Henry-tours-tornado-damage/v4sv94w9mkuuZD1sTbl4MQ.cspx }}{{dead link|date=June 2016|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}} On February 15, President Obama approved Henry's request for federal assistance in Carter, Logan and Oklahoma counties.{{cite web|publisher=KTUL |date=February 16, 2009 |access-date=February 18, 2009 |title=Federal Assistance Approved For Tornado Victims |url=http://www.ktul.com/news/stories/0209/595446.html }}{{dead link|date=June 2016|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}} A disaster recovery center was set up by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) on February 20. Homeowners were allowed to borrow $200,000 to repair damages to their home or find a temporary or permanent shelter. They were also allowed to borrow up to $40,000 to replace lost property. Businesses were allowed to borrow up to $2 million for damage repair, property loss, and economic loss.{{cite web|author= |publisher=KOCO |date=February 20, 2009 |access-date=February 23, 2009 |title=Recovery Center Opening In Lone Grove |url=http://www.koco.com/news/18762193/detail.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719103755/http://www.koco.com/news/18762193/detail.html |archive-date=July 19, 2011 }} By February 23, about $781,000 had been given in federal grants.{{cite web|agency=Associated Press|work=Tulsa World|date=February 23, 2009|access-date=February 24, 2009|title=Storm assistance for Oklahomans tops $781K|url=http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/article.aspx?subjectid=298&articleid=20090223_298_0_OLHMIY530135|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120913172349/http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/article.aspx?subjectid=298&articleid=20090223_298_0_OLHMIY530135|url-status=dead|archive-date=September 13, 2012}} On February 25, FEMA approved Governor Henry's request for public assistance in Carter, Coal and Love counties.{{cite press release|title=Gov. Henry Announces Public Assistance Granted for Counties Impacted by Tornadoes, Ice Storm |publisher=State of Oklahoma |date=February 25, 2008 |url=http://www.gov.ok.gov/display_article.php?article_id=1199&article_type=1 |access-date=February 26, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090416062332/http://gov.ok.gov/display_article.php?article_id=1199&article_type=1 |archive-date=April 16, 2009 }} The estimated cost to clear the 7,000 tons of debris in Lone Grove was placed at $500,000, of which $90,000 has been paid for by FEMA.{{cite web|first=Meredith|last=Saldana|publisher=KTEN|date=April 7, 2009|access-date=April 10, 2009|title=Lone Grove Tornado Recovery Efforts|url=http://www.kten.com/Global/story.asp?S=10139546&nav=menu410_2_8}} The Department of Homeland Security offered to assist with the reconstruction of homes and businesses and to support those who were left homeless.{{cite web|agency=Associated Press|publisher=MSNBC|date=February 11, 2009|access-date=February 13, 2009|title=Rescuers search for more Okla. tornado victims (Page two)|url=https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna29125653|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090216174946/http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29125653/page/2/|url-status=live|archive-date=February 16, 2009}}

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• Weather of 2009
• List of North American tornadoes and tornado outbreaks
• List of F4 and EF4 tornadoes
• List of F4 and EF4 tornadoes (2000–2009)
• List of United States tornadoes from January to March 2009

{{Reflist|group=nb}}

{{Reflist}}

{{2009 tornado outbreaks}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:2009-02-10 Tornado Outbreak}}

Category:Tornadoes of 2009

Category:Tornadoes in Oklahoma

Category:2009 natural disasters in the United States

Category:F4, EF4 and IF4 tornadoes

Category:Tornadoes in Texas

Category:Tornadoes in Missouri

Category:Tornadoes in Tennessee

Category:Tornadoes in Indiana

Category:Tornadoes in Virginia

Tornado outbreak