Many buildings and cabins, like Israel, pictured here, received damage from downed trees following a storm on July 5. (Photo by Jordan Thomas Hall)
By JORDAN THOMAS HALL
Last Thursday’s storms were especially devastating for a Knott County religion- based camp. The well- known Camp Nathanael in Emmalena fell victim to a strange weather occurrence Thursday afternoon, July 5. Cleanup efforts are still ongoing.
Three storm systems coming from the north, east, and west converged outside of Hindman. According to meteorologist Tony Edwards with the National Weather Service in Jackson, a downburst occurred. A downburst is caused by rain and wind being shot down from a storm and high winds being spread out rapidly when reaching the ground.
At 7:30 p.m. Camp Nathanael Director Roy Hodson reported 25-40 large trees were down on the premises. Widespread property damage was suffered by the camp including several cabins that had been occupied only hours earlier. Trees blocked roadways and downed power lines. Winds were estimated to be between 80 to 100 mph.
Another system hit the Pinetop area that evening knocking trees down onto a residence and a vehicle. Highway 582 also had trees blocking the roadway. A weather station five miles north of Hindman measured wind gusts 63 mph, which was the record for the life of that storm. A mudslide blocked Highway 15 for over an hour earlier in the day.
Edwards noted that wind damage is typical with thunderstorms this time of year, but to this extent is rare. Additionally, Knott County is on the edge of drought with conditions being more severe in the western portion of the state. He also said the forecasted temperatures in the 80s will only be temporary before the excessive heat returns this summer.