Tornado History of Ouachita Parish
1875-1998

The following is a history of all recorded Tornadic activity in Ouachita Parish from 1875 until mid 1998. This study was compiled from accident reports, weather reports, newspaper clippings, radar and satellite data, and eye witness accounts. This report is the result of hours of pouring over these many sources, and is thought to be the most accurate and complete in existence. With the aid of computers, the data has been organized in several ways, among these are frequency by year, frequency by month, frequency by day, comparisons by strength and comparisons with other parishes. In recent history, several things have led to more accurate reporting. Video cameras have helped document activity and allow the untrained to bring information to those who can analyze the data. However, the two biggest advantages today are the use of WSR-88D Doppler Radar and the growing use of trained Skywarn Spotters, made up primarily of Amateur Radio Operators and recently in North Louisiana, Law Enforcement personnel. These Skywarn Groups are trained by National Weather Service personnel and become their eyes and ears in the field. These groups can provide detailed information on characteristics of a storm which radar can't see, such as elevation, exact location relative to landmarks, intensity of hail and lightning associated with the storm. These partnerships help provide for the quicker gathering of information and often mean warnings are issued quicker. Although more accurate analysis after the storm is important, getting these warning out quicker is most important. Sometimes just a few extra minutes can make the difference in someone getting their family to safety.

This Allegiance was formed at the national level when the NWS and American Radio Relay Leagues public service branch, Amateur Radio Emergency Services (ARES), recognized the benefits that could be gained from working together. Amateur Radio operators cannot accept any compensation for their efforts. They work with the National Weather Service and several other groups, in the name of Public Service.

"We recognize that the NWS is the agency tasked with issuing storm warnings. We also recognize that no agency, group or individual has the power to stop a severe thunderstorm or tornado. Amateur Radio Operators provide their services voluntarily, therefore, no particular level of service is guaranteed. The ARES/Skywarn group will, to the best of their ability, assist the NWS by providing spotter reports."

All Charts, Graphs and Information compiled by Bruce Burkman, Warning Coordinator Meteorologist, National Weather Service, Shreveport, LA.

Preface by Mark Ketchell, N5MYH, ARES Section Emergency Coordinator, Louisiana.