The Saga Local Meteorological Observatory said the gusts, which occurred at around 7:20 a.m., may have been spawned by a tornado traveling at a speed of 180 kph to 248 kph.

The gusts recorded a wind velocity of 65.16 kph at 7:22 a.m.

About 260 houses were damaged and some cars were blown on to their sides. The roof of an elementary school and gates at a high school pool were damaged.

The Japan Times Weekly: July 3, 2004
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