High Wind — Jackson County, Oregon

2008-01-03 to 2008-01-04 · Jackson County, Oregon

Event narrative

High winds knocked down many trees in the Jackson County forests, which in turn caused one death and damaged many structures and vehicles. While the highest recorded gust in the area was 52 mph, winds must have been much higher in the Butte Falls and Lake Creek areas. A Gold Hill woman was killed when a tree fell on her vehicle around 04/0610 PST. Around 50 trees were reported down around Butte Falls, where the elementary school, at least two houses, and at least one vehicle were heavily damaged. Many areas lost electricity and communications, and the power was not restored to some areas for several days.

Wider weather episode

A second stronger front followed closely on the heels of the 01/03 front. A High Wind Warning was issued for Oregon zones ORZ021/022 at 03/0333 PST, effective from 04/0400 until 04/1600 PST. The effective time was changed to 04/0100 until 04/0900 PST at 03/1544 PST. The warning was extended twice, to 04/1600 PST at 03/2334 PST, then to 04/2100 PST at 04/1609 PST. The warning expired at 04/2100 PST. High Wind Warnings were issued for other areas as well. A High Wind Warning was issued for Oregon zones ORZ029/030/031 at 03/0833 PST, effective from 03/0833 until 04/1300 PST. It was extended until 05/0100 PST at 03/1544 PST, then shortened to 04/1600 PST at 03/2334 PST. It was cancelled at 04/1242 PST. A High Wind Warning was also issued for Oregon zones ORZ027/028 at 04/0715 PST, effective from 04/0715 until 04/1600 PST. It was cancelled at 04/1242 PST.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 67099. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.