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Cleanup efforts are underway in Syracuse following a series of severe storms that swept through the area on Sunday (March 16). The storms prompted tornado warnings and caused significant disruptions, though no tornadoes were confirmed. Heavy rain and strong winds led to property damage and widespread power outages, particularly in Onondaga County.
At the height of the storm, nearly 14,000 customers in Onondaga County lost power, according to National Grid. As of Monday morning (March 17), about 500 customers in the county remain without electricity. Other areas, such as Cortland County, have mostly restored power, with only a few hundred still affected.
The National Weather Service issued a tornado warning on Sunday afternoon, which expired by 5 p.m. as the severe weather moved through the region at speeds of up to 70 mph. Residents were advised to take shelter in basements or interior rooms during the warning. The storms brought wind gusts up to 60 mph and pea-sized hail, as reported by Syracuse.com.
A flood watch remains in effect for Oneida and Oswego counties until 8 p.m. Monday, as the region continues to deal with the aftermath of the storms. Local authorities and utility companies are working to restore power and clear debris from affected areas.