High Wind — Roanoke, Virginia

2025-02-16 · Roanoke, Virginia

Event narrative

Several power lines were blown down by non-thunderstorm winds around Roanoke. In addition, the Roanoke Airport ASOS reported a wind gust of 50 knots.

Wider weather episode

A strong pressure gradient in the wake of a cold front caused very strong, gusty winds throughout Southwest Virginia, with winds exceeding 60 MPH at times. The extent of damage was exacerbated by a strong freezing rain event in the previous couple days, both softening soil and weakening tree branches.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1239028. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.