Tornado in North London Rips Roofs off Homes

Very, Very Frightening —resident James Miles



Photo: collapsed ... tornado rips through house

December 7, 2006
AP

A tornado has hit north London, injuring six people, smashing up houses and cars and leaving wreckage strewn in its wake.

Photo: Devastation left by storm

One man was taken to hospital with a head injury and five people were treated at the scene for minor injuries and shock.

The storm ripped off entire roofs and tore down the walls of houses - even though eyewitnesses said it lasted just seconds.

Emergency services were sent to the scene at Chamberlayne Road in Kensal Rise after reports came in at 11am.

Resident James Miles told Sky News the experience had been "very, very frightening".

"I was talking outside with a friend when all of a sudden there was a flash of lightning and a huge big bang, then two minutes later this horrendous tornado shot right across," he said.

"Slates were flying everywhere onto people's houses and cars.

"It's really nasty. A lot of people are shaken up. It's not the sort of thing that happens in central London."

Photo: Tornado struck in seconds

Dawn Butler, Labour MP for Brent South, told Sky News: "We have to try and make sure that those people who are put out and not able to get their belongings that it does not have a detrimental effect upon their Christmas.

"But we also should be grateful that nobody has been fatally injured and that no lives are lost.

"This is a mini-tornado and look at the damage it has done. It has done maximum damage."

Sky News weather forecaster Francis Wilson said tornadoes generate winds in excess of 100mph.

"Warm air at the bottom and cold at the top is a recipe for unstable weather, which is what's happened here," he said.

Hail and thunderstorms were reported elsewhere across London.

If you were caught up in the tornado and have taken pictures on your mobile you can send them to us by dialling 07738 501501. Alternatively, if you've used a camera, email the pictures to us at newsonline@bskyb.com.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/16052360/