Possible Tornado Sweeps Through Quintrell Downs in Cornwall, UK

Reports indicate that a possible tornado struck Quintrell Downs near Newquay in Cornwall, UK, between 09:30 and 09:45 UTC on January 23, 2025. The sudden and violent weather event left a trail of destruction, damaging homes, uprooting trees, and scattering debris across the area.

Watch as a 'tornado' causes damage in the Newquay area.

Watch as a 'tornado' causes damage in the Newquay area. (Video from today - 23/01/25)

Credit: Niamh/ Kernow Weather Team pic.twitter.com/VXDAz3BzFu

— BBC Cornwall (@BBCCornwall) January 23, 2025

Damage and Impact
Residents reported significant damage, with some homes losing sections of their roofs and a local garage confirming damage to eight vehicles. Trees were toppled, and debris was strewn across the village. Witnesses described the event as brief but devastating, with winds lasting mere seconds yet causing widespread chaos.

Storm Eowyn and Meteorological Context
The tornado was part of severe weather conditions brought by Storm Eowyn, which has been battering the UK coast with winds reaching 160 km/h (100 mph). The UK Met Office had issued a tornado warning in advance, cautioning residents about the risks of extreme winds.

Heavy rainfall accompanied the tornado, with over 32 mm (1.26 inches) of rain recorded in the Newquay area within an hour. This compounded the storm's impact, contributing to localized flooding and hazardous conditions.

Emergency Response
Devon and Cornwall Police reported an increase in weather-related emergency calls and urged residents to remain vigilant. At Holywell Bay, near Newquay, caravans were damaged, and at least one person sustained minor injuries. Cleanup operations are underway, with emergency services and local volunteers assisting in debris removal and temporary repairs.

Cornwall Council has advised residents to avoid the affected area and take extreme caution when accessing properties.

Tornadoes in the UK
Tornadoes are rare but not unheard of in the UK, with an average of 30 reported annually. They typically form along active cold fronts where temperature gradients generate the necessary atmospheric vorticity. UK tornadoes often appear as narrow, rope-like formations and are identifiable by the debris they lift into the air.

Despite the destruction, residents expressed relief that no major injuries were reported. Ms. Foers summed up the community's resilience:

“We've lost part of our roof, but no one's injured, which is the main thing.”

As Storm Eowyn continues to impact the UK, authorities are urging caution and preparedness.