The Strongest Tornado Ever, by Wind Speed, Size and Damage

Joplin, Missouri, experienced one of the most costly and destructive tornadoes in U.S. history on May 22, 2011. With recorded wind speeds exceeding 200 mph (320 km/h), this EF5 tornado ripped through the city, leveling homes, businesses and hospitals.

The costliest tornado in American history, it caused over $2.8 billion in damages ($4.04 billion adjusted for 2025).

The Joplin tornado remains a reminder of how intense tornadoes can be when they strike populated areas. The National Weather Service has since improved warning systems to help reduce fatalities in future tornado outbreaks.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.