Tornado Rips Through Mobile Home Park in Oxnard

OXNARD, Calif., Feb. 17 (KNN) – A tornado that struck portions of southeast Oxnard on Thursday, February 13, was confirmed by the National Weather Service on Friday. The storm, which moved across southern Ventura County into Los Angeles County, produced wind speeds estimated between 75 and 90 mph, though exact wind speeds will be determined later today.

Dr. Ariel Cohen, Meteorologist in charge of the National Weather Service in Los Angeles, addressed the media at the site of the damage, confirming that the tornado impacted several mobile homes at the Ocean-Aire Mobile Home Park. The affected areas saw damage to roofs, windows and other exterior parts of the mobile homes, particularly double-wide structures.

“Our hearts go out to everyone who suffered damage,” Cohen said. “This is our community, and we know people have been impacted. Our deepest sympathies are with all those affected.”

The tornado’s path length was approximately half a mile. While tornadoes in the region are rare, the National Weather Service noted that small, weak tornadoes occur in the area at least once every year or two. While the damage was significant, Cohen emphasized that tornadoes in the area are typically less intense than those in regions like Oklahoma, Texas, and Kansas.

The storm system also brought severe thunderstorm warnings, damaging winds, mudslides, rockslides and significant flooding in Los Angeles County.

Cohen highlighted that the National Weather Service had provided advance warnings of the potential for tornado activity, with alerts issued at least 24 hours in advance. Though the forecast was considered low-confidence, the possibility of damaging weather prompted preparedness efforts throughout the region.

“We encourage everyone to be ready to take shelter if tornadoes are in the forecast,” Cohen said. “If you hear wind whipping up or see storms coming through, take immediate action to protect yourself. Get low in your structure and put as many walls between you and the outside as possible. Protect yourself from flying debris with blankets or pillows, and make sure you have multiple ways to receive emergency alerts.”

The National Weather Service continues to work with local authorities to aid recovery efforts and provide additional information to residents impacted by the storm.

Gabriel Pabon, Video Journalist / KNN