CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, Ohio — The National Weather Service confirmed to the city of Cleveland Heights that the area experienced a microburst during Friday’s storms that caused major damage and left thousands of residents without power.
During a microburst, wind speeds can reach or exceed 100 mph, the equivalent of an EF1 tornado, according to NWS.
The microburst experienced in Cleveland Heights uprooted trees, causing extreme property damage and downed more than 120 power lines in Cuyahoga County, causing extended power outages for many communities, according to officials.
There were around 8,000 residents in Cleveland Heights alone who lost power Friday, 1,500 of whom still are without power, officials said.
Most of the debris and fallen trees have been cleared from the roads in Cleveland Heights, but crews are still working to clear Fairfax Road, according to officials.
Due to the extensive amount of downed power lines and utility poles, restorations efforts have been complicated. As the damage is severe, estimated restoration time is still Monday by 4 p.m., officials said.
If you have not reported a power outage you can do so by calling 1-888-544-4877. You will receive updates directly from FirstEnergy regarding power restoration once you report your outage.
While the city is doing its best to clean up the damage from the storm, there is still the risk of falling branches and dangerous ground debris. Residents of the area should use caution when walking and driving through the impacted area.
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