Approaching Mapleton

A tornado, in its early stages, approaches Mapleton, Iowa from about two miles southwest of town around 7:20 PM, Saturday, April 9, 2011. At this point there was not a distinct funnel, and indeed our chase group was not completely sure what it was we were seeing from Sumac Avenue, at the mouth of a farm driveway (toward right). The location was about a quarter mile north of County Highway E34 and about seven miles from both the tornado and Mapleton. This view looks northwest. Note the rain shafts flanking the twister. The tornado would soon grow to EF3 strength, heavily damaging the town. Partially hidden at lower left is storm chaser and Iowa State University meteorology student Bryce Link.