Severe weather swept through Westmoreland and Indiana counties on Sunday, March 16, 2025, resulting in significant destruction as at least four EF-1 tornadoes touched down throughout the area. The National Weather Service (NWS) confirmed the tornadoes, which registered wind speeds of 86 to 110 mph, as they wreaked havoc across the region.
The first tornado was spotted near Donegal, Westmoreland County, followed closely by another one near Ligonier. Both instances were confirmed by the NWS on the following day, March 17. A third confirmed tornado touched down around Josephine, Indiana County, with the fourth near Darlington, also located within Westmoreland County.
The severity of the storms left many residents grappling with the aftermath. A market located in New Kensington suffered extensive damage, with its roof completely ripped off. A local resident, Tom Goldinger, shared his terrifying experience as he witnessed the tornado damage his barn along Acme Dam Road. "It sounded like a freight train and everything around is in slow motion and that's exactly what it was," Goldinger remarked.
Another resident, Andy Ansell, recounted the moment the storm hit. "The wind started blowing, [and] it got black. You couldn't even see across the road, all of a sudden, she hit," he said, describing how his roof sustained damage but fortunately held up during the fierce winds.
Rescue efforts included teams from the NWS who were sent out to survey the damage. They confirmed the wind gusts causing most destruction ranged from 90 to 100 mph. One noted location was Matson Farms, near Ligonier, where the tornadoes destroyed three buildings, with damage estimates reaching approximately $500,000. Remarkably, the family's 800 head of cattle remained unharmed.
Residents across the affected areas reported not only structural damage to their homes but also significant challenges with utility outages. Many have indicated they expect to remain without power for several days following the storms, straining accessibility to resources for recovery.
Shannon Hefferan, Lead Meteorologist at NWS, provided insight on the meteorological patterns contributing to the storms. During her assessment, she emphasized the importance of community preparedness. "Have your phone turned on for emergency alerts, especially in the nighttime," she cautioned, noting the unpredictability of when such storms might strike.
The widespread devastation demonstrates the urgency for communities to remain vigilant and proactive about severe weather threats. Pictures of the chaos were captured all around, showcasing blown-off roofs and trees uprooted everywhere.
The Matson family has chosen to encourage support of local businesses rather than creating fundraising campaigns for personal recovery. They aim to rebuild their farming operation through contributions from their community as they navigate these challenges.
Further following the storm, the NWS team continues to investigate areas where damage assessments could not be initially conducted due to accessibility issues.
Meanwhile, citizen response has been overwhelmingly supportive, with neighbors gathering to lend extra hands as many begin the arduous task of cleaning up following the devastation. Local residents are sharing resources and tools to aid each other’s recovery efforts.
Reflecting on the outpouring of community spirit, Joseph Canton of Blairsville shared his sentiments after experiencing the storm firsthand. "It was definitely something to experience," he noted, recounting the chaos and confusion during the storm and reaffirming gratitude for the absence of injuries.
Across the area, the tornadoes and severe storms mark the first of the severe weather season, with many now taking precautions and educating themselves about safety measures. Notably, this is the first tornado to hit Indiana County since June 26, 2024, emphasizing the rarity and seriousness of the phenomena.
A meteorologist with the NWS pointed out the broad expanse of damage stretching from Derry to Blairsville and beyond, elucidated by strong winds and erratic weather patterns.
The cleanup is only beginning, but local communities are demonstrating remarkable resilience and determination to recover from this episode. With cooperation and support among neighbors, residents hope to rebuild even stronger.
