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Severe Microburst Causes Damage and Power Outages in Massachusetts

The aftermath of a powerful microburst in Massachusetts with significant property damage.

News Summary

A powerful microburst struck Ayer and Shirley, Massachusetts, leading to extensive damage and widespread power outages. High winds over 70 mph uprooted trees and damaged homes. Thousands lost power as cleanup efforts began. Local authorities advise residents to remain cautious as the cleanup continues.

Ayer, Massachusetts – A powerful microburst struck Ayer and Shirley, Massachusetts, on Tuesday morning, leaving a trail of significant property damage and widespread power outages. Residents were jolted awake by severe weather alarms, signaling the onset of the intense storm characterized by high winds and hail.

Scott Wade, a local resident, reported extensive damage in his Shirley yard with at least 20 trees down. The storm’s force was particularly devastating as two newly purchased family cars were crushed by falling trees. The National Weather Service recorded wind speeds in the area soaring over 70 mph.

In Ayer, a large tree fell outside a gas station; fortunately, the gas pump remained unharmed as no patrons were using it at the time. As the storm raged on, severe thunderstorm warnings were issued for parts of Worcester and Middlesex counties, extending until 4:30 p.m.

The morning brought heavy rain along with strong wind gusts to northern Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire. Many residents, including Jeannette Wade, observed large trees collapsing around their homes. Some individuals along Walker Road were forced to seek shelter in their basements to ride out the dangerous conditions.

In response to the aftermath, tree removal crews, such as HM Flagg Tree Removal, quickly mobilized to clear blocked roadways and driveways. In South Boston, a falling tree on K Street broke a window of a nearby residence, further illustrating the extent of the storm’s impact.

The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) reported that thousands of residents lost power in the wake of the storm. By 7:50 p.m., over 11,000 residents across Massachusetts were experiencing power outages, with the eastern regions of Hampshire and Hampden Counties facing the greatest storm effects.

Ware was particularly hard-hit, with over 3,500 customers without power at the peak of the outages, while nearby Palmer also saw significant disruptions with more than 1,000 residents affected. Rondeau Road and River Street in Palmer had to be closed due to fallen trees and power lines posing safety hazards.

Damage from fallen trees and debris was reported in various structures throughout Palmer and Ware. As the storm continued, Springfield also faced severe weather conditions around 4:00 p.m., which resulted in downed trees, widespread power outages, and even a transformer fire. Springfield Police were compelled to close sections of Wilbraham Road due to power lines that had been brought down by the winds.

As emergency responders continue to address the aftermath of this severe microburst, residents in affected areas are advised to remain cautious and prioritize safety. Cleanup efforts are underway, and local authorities are working diligently to restore power and clear debris from roadways to enable a return to normalcy.