On January 8th, 2007 the North Central Washington area was hit by a wind storm that brought sustained wind speeds from 40mph to 120+mph. Much damage was done to property, but luckily there were no serious injuries or deaths reported. Power was out for many Chelan and Douglas County residents for up to a few days in some areas but after many long days by local PUD linesman, things were back to normal… almost.
Though there was tons of damage done to homes and cars, some of the most visible damage was done to Wenatchee’s city parks. Many large trees that had provided shade from early in Wenatchee’s history are no more.
Memorial Park lost a number of large trees and there will be less shade and shelter during this year’s Apple Blossom Festival.
Many of the largest trees at Pioneer Park were ripped right out of the soft earth and still lay on their sides.
Lincoln Park, known more for it’s wide open spaces than it’s tree cover, also sustained serious tree damage. Lincoln Park became headquarters for the city’s debris removal.
More photos of wind storm damage from around Wenatchee can be found in the gallery by following the link above, or just click on Wenatchee Wind Storm Damage 2007.
