Not a Tornado – but a Microburst
Stratford Weather Event
Office of Mayor Hoydick
July 18, 2024
The storm that caused heavy damage in Stratford on Wednesday was likely a microburst, the National Weather Service confirmed, according to Mayor Laura R. Hoydick.
Hoydick released the following statement on Thursday regarding the storm and cleanup efforts:
“Yesterday’s weather event caused an incredible amount downed trees, limbs, branches, and debris. The area of Stratford between and around Huntington Road and Nichols Avenue felt the brunt of the storm, which the National Weather Service confirmed was likely a microburst.
A microburst is a localized column of sinking air, or downdraft, that occurs within a thunderstorm. It’s usually less than 2.5 miles in diameter and can last for 2–5 minutes. Microbursts can produce destructive winds of up to 168 miles per hour (mph) and can cause extensive damage at the surface, including broken fences and ripped shingles. In some cases, they can be life-threatening.
After the initial and strongest strand of the storm passed just after 6pm, Stratford Fire and Police went out to assess the damage and block off hazardous roads and areas. Stratford’s Department of Public Works immediately responded, calling in crews to remove and clear trees that were blocking road access. Public Works and our Public Safety Director worked closely with United Illuminating where trees had taken down electrical services and left large limbs dangling from power lines. Once UI declared the power lines safe, our Public Works crews removed the trees so UI could restore power to the residents. Clean up efforts continued through the night, and work continues today with more tree takedowns, large limb removals and debris collection. We appreciate the patience of our residents and businesses as clean up will continue over the next few weeks.
Tremendous thanks to our Public Works Department and Public Safety Departments for the coordination of their quick response last night. I would also like to thank the Stratford community for taking proper safety precautions and for helping their neighbors during this time. It is a testament to why Stratford is such a wonderful place to live and work.” – Mayor Laura R. Hoydick
