Thunderstorm Wind in Erie County, New York

Tree downed on median of I90.

On July 10, 2024, most of western and central New York were impacted by the remnants of tropical cyclone Beryl. The event brought every type of warm season severe hazard, including 10 tornadoes across the entire state, numerous reports of wind damage, hail and significant flash flooding.

As the remnants of Beryl approached the region, a warm front out ahead of/associated with the system provided one of the main focus points for the severe weather. The front, draped from west to east across the state, generally along/near I90 remained nearly stationary through the day, moving only slowly north. Instability increased greatly along and south of the front. With the system being of tropical origin, it was highly dynamic with strong shear, especially along and just north of the warm front across the area. A passing mid-level trough during the event also helped to increase the severe potential for the day.

The event resulted in numerous tornado warnings issued across western and central New York with 10 tornadoes confirmed for the day. Wind damage from thunderstorms was also widespread across the area, mainly from near Lake Erie, northeast to Rochester and the northern Finger Lakes, to the north country. Other than the tornadoes during this event, the most significant issue was flash flooding that occurred in Lewis County.

Significant flash flooding occurred in the Town of Lowville, where roads washed out, water rescues were required and numerous buildings were flooded, including the Lowville Academy and Central School. Rainfall amounts in Lowville were nearly 6.50 inches. Flood damage in Lowville totaled $50 million.