317 Dead in Five Minutes: The Great Natchez Tornado

On a hot Thursday afternoon in 1840, a tornado roared up the Mississippi River and shattered the busy port town of Natchez, killing at least 317 people in a matter of minutes. Today, May 7 marks the anniversary of the storm, which still ranks as the second-deadliest tornado in United States history.

The Great Natchez Tornado offers a sobering window into how raw and unforgiving severe weather can be, especially in an era before radar, sirens, and smartphone alerts. Its lessons about preparation and shelter still apply in 2026.

What Happened on May 7, 1840

The storm began as a sticky, overcast morning along the Mississippi. Early observers described a dusty haze, low rolls of thunder, and a barometer that dropped fast. The tornado touched down around 20 miles southwest of Natchez and tracked northeast along the river, stripping forests on both banks as it moved.

Just after 1 p.m., the funnel slammed into Natchez Landing, the busy port at the foot of the bluff. Witnesses said the air filled with whirling walls, roofs, chimneys, and timbers thrown like missiles. Within five minutes, parts of the city were unrecognizable.