A tornado tore through the town of Aldershot in Hampshire, the United Kingdom damaging properties and toppling trees as it moved approximately 1.2 miles (2km) shortly after midday.
The Tornado and Storm Research Organisation (TORRO) confirmed the phenomenon, which was captured on video by residents, showing debris swirling in the air.
Rushmoor Borough Council stated that no injuries have been reported. However, they advised residents to remain cautious and report any fallen trees that may pose a danger. “If you see damaged trees that seem hazardous, please contact emergency services immediately,” the council urged.
Emergency services responded quickly to the incident. Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service confirmed their involvement, saying: “Firefighters are part of a joint response at an incident in Aldershot after a number of properties and trees were damaged in strong winds. Crews from Rushmoor and Surrey Fire and Rescue Services were first called shortly after midday and are working closely with partner agencies to make the scene safe.”
Residents shared footage from doorbell cameras on social media, capturing the chaotic scene as roof tiles and other debris littered the streets. Some of the worst-hit areas saw gardens torn apart and damage to properties, though no injuries have been reported.
BBC Weather presenter Alexis Green commented on the event, stating: “The UK, on average, experiences around 30 tornadoes per year, though they remain rare at any one location. Today’s event was linked to the active thunderstorms in the southern regions.”
The tornado occurred just a day after the Met Office issued a yellow thunderstorm warning for the area, following a week of temperatures regularly exceeding 20°C. Thunder and lightning were observed across much of the region at the time of the tornado.
Paul Knightley, head of TORRO, explained the possible causes: “The formation of tornadoes is still the subject of intensive research, and their exact mechanisms are yet to be understood. However, pre-existing rotation in the lower atmosphere, stretched by the strong upwards-moving air in a thunderstorm, is likely what formed today’s tornado.”
Authorities continue to monitor the situation as cleanup efforts are underway across the town.
