Press Release: Weekend Tornado Confirmed near Fourtown

Press Release: Weekend Tornado Confirmed near Fourtown

June 27, 2025

The National Weather Service has confirmed an EF1 tornado tracked across Beltrami County on the evening of Sunday, June 22, 2025 north of Fourtown. Based on a damage assessment, spotter reports and video evidence, the tornado touched down in Marshall County, crossing Beltrami County and dissipating in Lake of the Woods County. Maximum wind speeds are estimated at 95 miles per hour and had a damage path of approximately 25 miles. The tornado crossed Fourtown Road near Gates Corner in rural Beltrami County. The tornado likely made several touchdowns over the 25 mile path.

Despite being in very remote areas of Beltrami County, one car was caught in the tornado. Due to the number of downed trees, they became trapped in the debris. Because of the remoteness in this area, they were unable to make a phone call to 911. The vehicle occupants had just enough signal to send a text message and they utilized Minnesota’s Text-to-911. This allowed them to reach the Beltrami County Emergency Communications Center. Dispatchers were able to determine their location and send help.

Beltrami County deputies responded to the area with chainsaws. Upon arrival they discovered the destruction was too significant to access the car with chainsaws. They made contact with the vehicle occupants and escorted them to the south of the damage path and were able to give them a ride from the scene. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources cleared the debris and the vehicle was removed the following day. No injuries were reported.

-Christopher Muller

Beltrami County Emergency Management Director