Story perspectives

EF-1 Tornadoes Hit Dover and Atlantic Beach, Officials Confirm

8/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. Weather Service confirmed EF-1 tornadoes struck Dover, Delaware and Atlantic Beach, New York.
Dover Mayor Robin Christiansen declared a state of emergency just before 6:30 p.m. Thursday.
The Dover tornado produced 105 mph winds, damaging the Super Lodge and Days Inn no injuries.
Nassau Executive Bruce Blakeman declared an emergency after an EF-1 tornado hit Atlantic Beach.
The Atlantic Beach tornado generated 97 mph winds, destroying about 50 cabanas and injuring one employee.

History

Historical Context

The May 3 1999 Bridge Creek–Moore tornado tore through southern Oklahoma City, killing 36 people and producing 321 mph winds—the highest ever recorded by Doppler radar. Its devastation prompted the first tornado emergency and radar upgrades. In 2024, EF-1 tornadoes in Dover, Delaware, and Atlantic Beach, New York, led mayors Robin Christiansen and Bruce Blakeman to declare emergencies, reflecting the same warning-system focus.

1 of 2

Story summary

U.S. Weather Service confirmed EF-1 tornadoes struck Dover, Delaware and Atlantic Beach, New York.
Dover Mayor Robin Christiansen declared a state of emergency just before 6:30 p.m. Thursday.
The Dover tornado produced 105 mph winds, damaging the Super Lodge and Days Inn no injuries.
Nassau Executive Bruce Blakeman declared an emergency after an EF-1 tornado hit Atlantic Beach.
The Atlantic Beach tornado generated 97 mph winds, destroying about 50 cabanas and injuring one employee.

1 / 2