The June 16, 2014 Pilger, Nebraska Twin EF4 Tornadoes: A Rare Meteorological Event
Event Statistics
On June 16, 2014, one of the most remarkable tornadic events in recorded history occurred near Pilger, Nebraska. According to the National Weather Service (NWS) Omaha/Valley, this event featured two simultaneous EF4 tornadoes produced by the same supercell—a phenomenon known as "cyclic tornadogenesis" occurring in such rapid succession that both vortices remained on the ground together for several miles.
The NWS damage survey confirmed that both tornadoes reached EF4 intensity, with estimated peak winds of 170-190 mph. The southern tornado directly impacted the town of Pilger, while the northern "sister" vortex tracked parallel across open farmland.
The Intercept: Captured by professional aviator and storm chaser Caleb Elliott, this archive represents a definitive visual record of the dual-vortex structure. The documentation focuses on the incredible vortex interaction and the intense inflow dynamics that sustained two violent circulations simultaneously. This footage remains a primary source for storm structure analysis and cinematic weather history.