HAGERSTOWN, Md. — A neighborhood in Hagerstown is working to recover after powerful wind gusts caused significant damage on Easter Sunday.
The National Weather Service reported gusts as high as 75 miles per hour, knocking out power for many residents, damaging homes and vehicles, and scattering debris across the area.
Despite the storm, community members tried to make the best of the holiday. “We didn’t get to do an Easter egg hunt, but we still had good food thanks to a generator,” said resident Logan.
Betty Whittington, a longtime resident, said she’s grateful to be safe after her neighbor’s roof landed just feet from her usual sitting spot. “I’ve lived here 82 years and never seen anything like this,” she said. “The lights flickered, rain poured for about two minutes, then BOOM—it scared the life out of me.”
Across the street, John Lowery recalled watching TV when his roof was torn off. “There’s a lot of destruction, but I’m thankful no one was hurt. You can replace things, not people,” he said.
Neighbors came together to support each other during the aftermath. As of Sunday evening, crews were still working to restore electricity.
Although the National Weather Service hasn’t confirmed the event as a tornado, officials believe it was likely caused by strong straight-line winds. A formal assessment is expected Monday.
