High Wind — Monroe, New York

1997-02-22 · Monroe, New York

Wider weather episode

A strong cold front cross the region during the morning hours. Temperatures dropped 40 to 45 degrees with the passage of the front. The funnelling effect of the Great Lakes combined with rapid pressure rises behind the front to produce hazardous winds. Trees, power lines and poles were downed across the entire area. Hundreds of thousands were left without power. Reports of homes and autos damaged by the falling trees and limbs were numerous. The strong winds caused structure damage in some locations tearing off roofs and shingles, blowing out windows, and collapsing walls. Air travel from the Buffalo and Rochester airports was interrupted. A 54 year old volunteer fireman was killed in Spencerport while responding to an emergency call when a large tree fell on the car crushing him. His 15 year old son also riding in the car suffered injuries. Reported gusts included: 61 knots at Rochester, 58 knots at Watertown, 53 knots at Buffalo and 51 knots at Niagara Falls.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 5588359. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.