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11 years ago a tornado ripped through Windsor, destroying 78 homes

It was exactly 11 years ago today that a EF3 tornado ripped through Windsor and other parts of Weld County, killing one person and injuring several others.

WINDSOR, Colorado — Eleven years ago on this day, the images coming out of Windsor, Colorado were the talk of the country. 

A three-quarter mile wide tornado packed with wind speeds near 160 miles per hour hit northern Colorado on May 22, 2008. One person was killed, and several others were hurt. 

The EF3 tornado stayed on the ground for nearly 40 miles, leaving a devastating trail of damage through Weld and Larimer counties.

Credit: 9NEWS
May 22, 2008 Windsor Tornado

In total, the tornado left behind an estimated $100 to $125 million in damage -- making it the second costliest tornado in state history. 

According to Windsor's final recovery report, 78 homes were destroyed and 168 families were forced out of their homes. 

Credit: 9NEWS
May 22, 2008 Windsor Tornado

In the 11 years since the tornado, the town has rebuilt and doubled in population. Those who were there still remember the day vividly. 

RELATED: 10 years later: Windsor's resilience since tornado

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