Opelika Straight Line Wind Damage

Opelika Straight Line Wind Damage (Lee County)
February 7, 2017

Event Summary

National Weather Service meteorologists surveyed damage in the city of Opelika that was consistent with straight line wind damage. Winds were estimated at 60 to 70 mph.

This swath of damaging wind began at a large warehouse building on Williamson Avenue. Significant structure and roof damage was sustained. The damaging winds continued northeastward onto Steel Street, where another industrial building sustained roof damage, along with minor damage to other structures. The Goo Goo Car Wash on Marvyn Parkway sustained significant roof damage just to the northeast, where the swath of damaging winds ended. The swath was 0.66 miles long and was 150 yards wide at its widest point. The maximum winds were from 60 to 70 mph. 1 injury was sustained at the car wash.

Thanks to Lee County EMA for their assistance with this survey.

Estimated Maximum Wind:	60-70 mph
Injuries/Fatalities:	1 Injury/0 Fatalities
Damage Path Length:	0.66 miles
Maximum Path Width:	150 yards
Approximate Start Point/Time:	2 S Opelika 32.6237/-85.3815 at 2:53 pm CST
Approximate End Point/Time:	2 SSE Opelika 32.6287/-85.3719 at 2:54 pm CST

Reflectivity (left) and Velocity (right). Images are from KBMX at 2:53 pm CST.

Roof damage to car wash	Debris spread across field
Wall destroyed in warehouse	Extensive damage to warehouse

Back to February 7, 2017 Event Page