Colorado Tornado Confirmed at 11,300 Feet, Among Highest Ever Recorded in State
PUEBLO, COLORADO — Meteorologists have confirmed a rare high-altitude tornado that developed earlier this month on the slopes of Sawtooth Mountain, setting a state record for one of the highest-elevation tornadoes in Colorado history.
Details of the Tornado
According to the National Weather Service office in Pueblo, the tornado formed on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at approximately 11,300 feet above sea level. That elevation places it as the fourth-highest tornado ever confirmed in the state.
The tornado was rated EF-U (unknown strength) because it left no damage indicators. It touched down at 1:07 p.m. MDT, lasting about five minutes, with survey data showing a path length of 0.84 miles and a maximum width of 95 yards.
No injuries or fatalities were reported.
Why It’s So Rare
Colorado tornadoes most often form at lower elevations across the plains, making this storm a rare occurrence for the mountains.
The NWS highlighted that the unusual event underscores Colorado’s diverse and unpredictable severe weather patterns, especially in late summer and early fall.
Valuable Data for Meteorologists
Even without damage, officials say tornadoes like this provide useful insight into tornado formation in mountainous terrain. Meteorologists continue to study such cases to better predict where and when unusual tornadoes may occur.
Residents are urged to remain alert for severe weather advisories, as late summer and fall storms can still produce dangerous conditions across Colorado.
Have you ever witnessed a tornado at high elevation in the Rockies? Share your experience in the comments and join the discussion at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
