(Nov. 27-28, 2005) - A fast-moving cold front pushed eastward over the weekend triggering high winds and a rash of wildfires in North Texas and Oklahoma. Supercells embedded in the squall line also spawned numerous thunderstorms and tornado outbreaks in Arkansas, Northern Louisiana, Alabama and Tennessee.

The combination of high winds and moderate to severe drought conditions contributed to the spread of wildfires. As northwest winds of 25 to 30 m.p.h., with gusts to 45 m.p.h., swept through the region -- dry vegetation and relative humidities near 15 percent, aided in the rapid development and spread of the wildfires. An estimated 50,000 acres and 35 homes were destroyed in Eastern Oklahoma. Wildfires also burned about 12, 000 acres in Texas and destroyed more than two dozen homes and non-residential structures.

Wind gusts estimated at 50 m.p.h. in Downtown Fort Worth knocked down the city's 66 foot Douglas Fir Christmas tree. Winds also blew down trees and power lines throughout the region. At the height of the event, approximately 70,000 people were without power in Texas and Oklahoma.

Severe storms tracked through mainly northern and central Arkansas during the afternoon and evening of November 27th. (Graphic provided by NWS Little Rock, AR)

At least 17 tornadoes were reported in East Texas, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Tennessee during the two day period. The National Weather Service Forecast Office in Little Rock confirmed eight touchdowns in Arkansas. One of the strongest struck a lumber mill and overturned cars along Interstate 40 in Plumerville, Ark.

One man was killed when the van he was riding in was lifted and thrown onto the median. His wife and their six children survived without life threatening injuries.

With winds estimated at 160 m.p.h. (F3 on the Fujita Scale), the Plumerville Tornado was one of the most powerful and could have resulted in a much higher death toll - if not for the early warning provided by WFO Little Rock. The Tornado Warning for Conway County (includes Plumerville) was issued 47 minutes before the tornado struck.

Noting the excellent warning lead time (more than four times the national average), Brig. Gen. (USAF retired) David L. Johnson, director of the National Weather Service, said, "This is the performance we strive for".

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