Key Highlights
- Severe storm downed trees and power lines in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania.
- About 37,000 customers lost power at the height of the storm, with that number dropping to around 2,000 by Thursday afternoon.
- Utility crews continue working to restore service as cleanup efforts are underway across affected communities.
- Resident Andrew Quintois reported significant damage in Pottstown, while Anne Gorski faced a large tree falling onto her property with utility pole and power lines downed.
Storm Hits Philadelphia Region Hardest
The storm brought powerful winds, heavy rain, and scattered damage across Montgomery County and neighboring areas. It moved through the region around rush hour, causing lightning strikes and reports of pebble-sized hail in Malvern and Wilmington.
Widespread Power Outages Impact Thousands
According to PECO, about 37,000 customers were without electricity at the height of the storm. By Thursday afternoon, that number had dropped to around 2,000 as utility crews continued working tirelessly to restore service and respond to damage reports.
Community Impact and Cleanup Efforts
In Pottstown, fallen trees were a common sight. Resident Andrew Quintois walked along Prospect Street on Thursday, where he assessed the extent of the damage. “Every block, there’s gigantic trees down,” he said. “My wife and I both work from home, so we have to figure out how to get online.”
Utility officials urged residents to stay cautious around storm damage. Matt Rankin, a senior communications specialist with PECO, warned, “Stay away from downed power lines or equipment that’s damaged. If they see it, they should assume that it’s energized and therefore dangerous.”
Resident Anne Gorski Faced Significant Damage
Anne Gorski discovered the extent of damage in Lower Pottsgrove Township after the storm passed. “Came outside afterwards and saw this lovely destruction of trees,” she said. A large tree fell in her yard, bringing down a utility pole and power lines. She was prepared for an extended outage. “Driving around, we had to pick up a generator last night because we anticipate a couple days of this.”
Recovery Efforts Continue as Communities Work Together
Cleanup efforts are underway as communities recover from the storm’s impact. Despite widespread damage, some residents expressed relief that the storm did not cause more serious harm to homes. “Damage to the houses is very minimal,” said Lower Pottsgrove Township resident Gary Frisoli. “It’s just an inconvenience.”
Utility crews continue working to restore power and clear debris as communities recover. The resilience of these communities shines through, showing that even in the face of severe weather, people come together to support one another.
