Cyclist on 360 Mile Ride Thanks Rome, New York After Getting Caught in Tornado

A cyclist taking on his first bike tour got way more than he bargained for in more ways than one.

Neal Carlson wanted to take an epic ride after reading a story in the New York Times in 2021. It stayed with him over the years and he decided this was the year he was going to try.

"This might sound cliché, but I feel like the trip is already a success," Carlson said before starting out. "I'm proud that I'm going for it and not letting any self doubt or any other stupid stuff get in the way of that."

Carlson packed everything he needed for the long journey, including his guitar.

Buffalo to Albany Bike Tour

The bike tour Carlson planned went from Buffalo to Albany along the Empire State Trail. A trip that is 360 miles long over over 8 days.

The first 150 miles Carlson had his two friends along for the ride giving him confidence and encouragement.

It wasn't until Sunday, August 14 when Carlson would be on his own with just his bike and the open road.

Biking Through a Tornado

Two days later Carlson was biking through Rome, right when the tornado hit. "It came on so fast. I've never been in anything like that, either."

Carlson took shelter under the Rome Capitol marquee while he watched the twister blow through. Not only did he see the tornado blow by, Carlson got to experience the kindness of strangers who were there to help.

READ MORE: Terrifying Video of Flying Tornado Debris in New York

"The one thing I didn't plan for on this cycling adventure was a tornado . Thanks to everyone in The City of Rome, NY. I am so grateful to have been around such nice people. I'll never forget it."

Carlson is a songwriter. He penned a tune about seeing the beauty in the world and on Tuesday, July 16 he got to see it first hand.

Central New York Tornadoes

The National Weather Service confirmed at EF2 tornado with 135 MPH winds touched down and didn't lift until ten minutes later, carving more than a 5 mile path of destruction in Rome.

An EF1 tornado with 100 MPH winds hit Canastota about thirty minutes earlier.

READ MORE: Special Fund Aids Victims of Worst Natural Disaster in Rome's History

The community has stepped up to help their neighbors offering shelter, food, clothing, and water while others are working on clean up efforts.