Two tornadoes were confirmed on August 31, 1977. The strongest traveled through a good part of Marathon County, WI. There is a discrepancy in the rating. The SPC and NCDC databases list a rating of F4 with this tornado. In a Google search, I ran across a 1970s Tornado / Waterspout Guide from the NWS Green Bay. They list this tornado with a rating of F3. Thomas Grazulis in Significant Tornadoes also has this tornado listed as F3. He mentioned “Near-F4” damage at 15 homes at Rib Mountain. Regardless, this was a significant tornado that caused a tremendous amount of damage. Total losses per Storm Data of $3,5000,000+ in Marathon County.
There is also a big discrepancy in the path length. All sources agree the path remained in Marathon County. The above tornado/waterspout guide states the path was 27 miles. The SPC and NCDC database have a length of 31.8 miles. Storm Data and Grazulis list the path length at 45 miles.
This tornado moved at tree-top level at the start of its path. Near Marathon City there were barns destroyed and extensive damage to the Ginseng corp. Most widespread damage seemed to be at Rib Mountain. With 45 homes destroyed/severely damaged. In Wausau, there was damage on the ground and at tree-top level.
There were no fatalities and 10 injuries.
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