Four 70-mph Microbursts Batter Philadelphia, Knocking Out Power to 26,000
Updated
Updated · NBC Philadelphia · Jul 13
Four 70-mph Microbursts Batter Philadelphia, Knocking Out Power to 26,000
3 articles · Updated · NBC Philadelphia · Jul 13
Summary
At least four microbursts hit the Philadelphia region between 2:44 p.m. and 3:15 p.m., bringing 60-70 mph winds that tore off part of a PHA apartment roof, damaged cars and forced dozens of residents out.
The National Weather Service said the straight-line wind bursts tracked from Lower Merion into West and South Philadelphia, toppling trees and wires, collapsing or damaging buildings and triggering flash-flood damage.
More than 26,000 PECO customers were without power by 10:45 p.m., SEPTA reported systemwide delays or cancellations, and Lower Merion declared a state of emergency with major repairs expected to last until at least Monday.
No injuries were reported, but officials said 11 apartment units were impacted, one Lower Merion apartment building was condemned, and city crews would work overnight as residents were told to avoid downed wires and report damage.