‘Derecho’ storm leaves four dead and more than 700,000 homes without power in central and northeastern US

The weather phenomenon that struck the central and northeastern United States, leaving a tragic toll of at least four people dead and more than 700,000 homes without power, was classified as a "derecho." This powerful storm traveled more than 800 kilometers, from eastern Indiana to central Pennsylvania, on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, generating winds that reached up to 128 km/h, heavy rains and widespread infrastructure damage.

A derecho storm with devastating impact

The derecho, which struck mainly the states of Pennsylvania, Ohio, Missouri and Oklahoma, is characterized by straight-line winds exceeding 93 km/h and extending over large distances. In this case, wind gusts reached up to 90 mph (145 km/h), causing massive downed trees, power poles and significant damage to homes and vehicles. This type of storm, although similar to a tornado, has a much longer duration and affects vast areas more extensively.

Along its path, the derecho left a trail of destruction affecting densely populated areas. In Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, authorities reported four deaths. These included one person who died in Franklin Township when a tree blown down by high winds fell on a car. In State College, another 22-year-old lost his life while attempting to extinguish a fire caused by downed power lines. The other two deaths occurred in the Pittsburgh area of western Pennsylvania, according to Allegheny County officials.

Damage and power outages

The wind gusts in Pittsburgh were as high as 114 km/h, and in nearby areas, winds exceeded 130 km/h, with some areas recording gusts of up to 145 km/h. The impact was devastating: roofs were ripped off, trees fell on vehicles and power lines were downed. In several areas, emergency crews had difficulty accessing trapped victims due to obstacles caused by fallen trees and wires.

The power outage affected more than 700,000 users, mainly in Pennsylvania. Authorities reported that, due to the damage to infrastructure and the lack of electrical service, several school districts suspended classes. Others implemented delays in the school day while utility crews worked to restore power and clear blocked roads.

Impact on the community and education system

The storm also severely impacted the education community. In at least two Pennsylvania school districts, classes were suspended due to power outages and roadblocks. In other areas, class delays were implemented to allow for restoration of services and to ensure the safety of students and staff. Emergency crews and utility crews continue to work around the clock to clear affected areas and restore basic supplies.

New Warnings and Additional Hazards

The National Weather Service and AccuWeather issued a new weather warning for Wednesday, April 30, due to continued severe weather conditions. Regions in Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri and Kentucky are expected to remain under threat of severe storms, which could generate additional high winds, heavy rain and other hazardous phenomena.

Forecasted conditions include wind gusts in excess of 60 mph, as well as downed trees and the potential for additional power outages. In addition, it is anticipated that heavy rains could cause flash flooding, posing an additional risk to affected areas. Local authorities have urged the population to remain alert and follow the indications of official channels, recommending to avoid flooded areas and any area where structures may be compromised by strong winds and adverse conditions.

An unusual phenomenon

This derecho storm is relatively rare. Although it shares some characteristics with a tornado, it differs in its formation and extent. While a tornado is usually a short-lived and more localized phenomenon, a derecho can last for hours and affect much larger areas. According to AccuWeather meteorologist Alan Reppert, this derecho was the first in 2025, and its path left not only destructive winds, but also heavy rains and electrical activity, which increased the extent of damage.