Incredible Photos Capture Severe Thunderstorm Aftermath In Utica/Rome Area

It started as a hot, summer morning in Central New York with the National Weather Service out of Binghamton issuing a Heat Advisory. Then, by the afternoon, storms were taking over the region causing power outages, plus damage to structures and trees.

On Wednesday, June 30, the National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm watch reporting that hail, lightning, and wind gusts up to 70 miles per hour. The first storm hit Oneida County around 1:10 PM according to the Utica OD, when a severe thunderstorm was located over Vernon, moving east at 30 mph.

Other outages in the area were reported, trees and wires were down in multiple areas, some homes and gazebos were damaged.

According to the Utica OD, shortly after 4 PM, city hall officials said additional personnel from the Utica police, fire, parks, and public works departments were called back to address traffic and storm-related issues. The city’s DPW was removing trees from the street to ensure safe traffic flow, but that some trees could not be removed until the area was cleared by National Grid. Only minor flooding was reported. They also encouraged residents to stay away from any downed power lines.

It's expected to be HOT the next few weeks, so the National Weather Service recommends drinking plenty of water, wearing loose, lightweight clothing, and taking plenty of breaks when outside. Strenuous activity should be reduced, eliminated, or rescheduled to the coolest time of the day in extreme heat.