High Wind — Eastern Franklin, Vermont

2022-12-23 · Eastern Franklin, Vermont

Event narrative

Several observed wind gusts in the 45-55 mph range but observational network is rather sparse. Based on numerous downed branches, trees and utility lines and similar damage where observed winds were at least 60 mph, would estimate at least 60-65 mph peak wind gusts.

Wider weather episode

An extremely powerful winter storm located in the eastern Great Lakes and Ontario delivered strong southeast winds of 25 to 35 mph with frequent gusts of 50-60+ mph during the morning hours to higher elevations, western slopes of the Green mountains and the Champlain valley. The result was numerous to widespread tree and utility damage (70,000 customers lost power at the peak, >100,000 total) as well as fallen trees onto vehicles and structures. There was one fatality in Rutland county due to a tree falling on the person.

These strong winds subsided to 15 to 25 mph with higher gusts by midday but was accompanied by heavy rain and snow melt that led to numerous mountain streams/waterways to reach or exceed bank full with a few waterways closing roads or flooding homes.

During late afternoon and evening hours a powerful arctic front associated with this winter storm moved across VT dropping temperatures from the 40s/L50s into the 20s and falling through the night on strong west winds of 20 to 35 mph. In addition, as those temperature free-fell during the afternoon and evening hours, a widespread 2-5 inches of snow fell with combined with sub-freezing airmass caused a flash freeze on all surfaces creating extremely hazardous travel.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1061611. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.