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The number of tornadoes confirmed to have touched down in southern Minnesota on Dec. 15 is now at least 16.

The number has increased in recent days as National Weather Service crews have completed additional surveys in the wake of the severe storms — including one more tornado touchdown 

. Prior to this year, there had never been a confirmed tornado in Minnesota in the month of December.

The strongest of the tornadoes was the one that caused major damage to buildings in Hartland, Minn., northwest of Albert Lea. It was an EF-2, with estimated peak wind speeds of 115 mph.

The tornado touched down about a mile southwest of the city and tracked northeast. It had a peak width of about 55 yards and was on the ground for just over 2 miles, over the span of about 3 minutes.

There were no reports of injuries or deaths from the tornadoes, though a man was struck and killed by a falling tree as severe storms moved through the Rochester area that night.

In addition to the Hartland tornado, the other Dec. 15 tornadoes confirmed by the National Weather Service offices in the 

The Weather Service also reported at least five tornadoes touched down in northeast Iowa on Wednesday night and at least five in western Wisconsin.

Minnesota News

Weather and Climate News

NewsPartners

Andrew Krueger

Author

The number of tornadoes confirmed to have touched down in southern Minnesota on Dec. 16 is now at least 16. Prior to this year, there had never been a confirmed tornado in Minnesota in the month of December.

Tim Evans for MPR News

Debris surrounds a monument following a severe storm

Confirmed December tornadoes in Minnesota now at least 16

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