Philadelphia Declares Disaster Emergency After 100 MPH Microburst Winds

Philadelphia was put under a disaster emergency declaration on Saturday after a series of microbursts triggered extensive damage across portions of the metro area. Here is a closer look at the weekend storm event.

Philadelphians Cleaning Up After Weekend Microbursts

Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker issued a disaster emergency on Saturday after a series of storms unleashed major flooding and uprooted trees throughout much of the City of Brotherly Love. The most severe damage to homes and infrastructure was reported in West and South Philadelphia, as well as some areas of Montgomery County. Nobody was injured in the severe storm event that ushered in winds of 70 mph and periods of heavy rain.

Meteorologists define microbursts as small but potent winds that crash to the ground during times of thunderstorm activity. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), these strong lines of sinking air extend outward in all directions and can cause significant damage. Although microbursts are not tornadoes, they behave similarly, packing dangerous straight-line winds capable of exceeding 100 mph.

At least four microbursts were confirmed in Philadelphia and the southern tier of Montgomery County on Saturday. The storms were responsible for flooded roadways, hundreds of downed trees and power lines, and damaged roofs. At least 30 residents were displaced when a roof ripped off a Philadelphia Housing Authority building.