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Today in History: Tornado Devastates Belvidere, Illinois, Causing 450+ Casualties

4/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On April 21, 1967, a violent tornado struck Belvidere, Illinois, shortly after students were dismissed from high school. The storm caused extensive damage, killing 23 people, including 13 at the school. Hundreds of homes and businesses were affected, and recovery efforts faced delays due to subsequent snowfall. This tornado was rated F4 on the Fujita scale.

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Story summary

On April 21, 1967, a violent tornado struck Belvidere, Illinois, shortly after students were dismissed from high school. The storm caused extensive damage, killing 23 people, including 13 at the school. Hundreds of homes and businesses were affected, and recovery efforts faced delays due to subsequent snowfall. This tornado was rated F4 on the Fujita scale.