A severe weather outbreak swept through a vast section of the United States, wreaking havoc from Texas to the Northeast. The storm took a deadly toll in Pennsylvania, where at least two other people were killed by storm-related electrocutions. As of April 30, almost 250,000 customers were still without power across the state, with communities still recovering from the destruction.
The storm carried unprecedented wind gusts, including a gust of 69 mph at Allegheny County Airport. For some areas in Pennsylvania, they felt winds gusting between 80—90 mph! These intense winds were more powerful than an average EF-0 or EF-1 tornado. This once-in-a-generation weather event produced catastrophic damage across seven states. Oklahoma, Kansas, Illinois, Arkansas, Missouri, Indiana, Ohio and New York were all hit hard with devastation.
Impact on Pennsylvania
The state was devastated by the hurricane’s torrential rains and hurricane-force winds, which fell trees and hydrocut utility poles across eastern Pennsylvania. Over 200,000 households and businesses in Allegheny County lost power during the storm.
Additionally, school districts all over western Pennsylvania were thrown into chaos. Most either closed completely or opened late in the day at best due to damage and/or lack of power.
“With high gusts nearing 80 mph causing significant damage across the region, today’s storm is unprecedented in DLC’s history. These heavy winds knocked down trees, broke utility poles and caused more than 20,000 separate reports of hazards so far,” – Duquesne Light Company.
The same day, April 29, tornadoes were tearing through Oklahoma and Missouri. On the left, these tornadoes uprooted trees and damaged outbuildings in Tulsa. Residents in these communities experienced major damage as powerful winds knocked trees onto homes and other structures.
Tornado Activity and Damage Reports
The National Weather Service confirmed at least three tornado sightings in our region during this timeframe. The resulting destruction was drastic, adding to the 34 lives lost and widespread chaos inflicted by this deadly February outbreak.
The storm certainly storm, as evidenced by more than 20,000 hazards reported through the storm’s wake across the impacted areas. This dramatic increase is indicative of the widespread impact of this disaster.
As emergency crews continue to restore power and assess damage, utility companies operators are already undergoing a substantial challenge.
Restoration Efforts Underway
Duquesne Light Company issued a statement of their support and concern for communities as they restore service in the wake of widespread destruction.
They warned that the severity of the weather and widespread damage would take time to assess. Thus, the estimated repair times could be similarly delayed.
“Our crews are 100% committed to getting all customers back up and running as quickly and safely as possible,” – West Penn Power.
“The severity of the weather and extensive nature of damage will likely delay assessments and estimated restoration times,” – Duquesne Light Company.
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