Strong winds and severe weather moved across New York state on Thursday, June 18, 2026, causing widespread power outages and prompting a series of tornado watches and thunderstorm warnings. According to National Weather Service data, the highest wind gust recorded in the state by 5 p.m. reached 57 mph in Buffalo, while Orange County saw a peak gust of 49 mph at 1:19 p.m.
While eastern New York experienced significant gusts, such as 47 mph at Brooklyn College and 46 mph at LaGuardia Airport, the strongest winds were recorded in the western part of the state, with Buffalo reporting 57 mph and Rochester reporting 55 mph.
Impact of severe weather on New York infrastructure
The intense wind gusts have taken a toll on local infrastructure, with falling tree branches and debris causing power outages for thousands of utility customers across the state. Meteorologists from the Weather Service predicted sustained winds between 20 and 30 mph, with gusts reaching up to 55 mph, to continue through 8 p.m. on Thursday.
The rapid transition between tornado watches and warnings indicates a highly volatile atmosphere. When wind speeds consistently reach or exceed 40–50 mph, as seen in this event, the structural integrity of trees and power lines is significantly compromised. The resulting outages are a direct consequence of these high-velocity gusts impacting aging or vulnerable utility infrastructure.
Tornado watch coverage and regional risks
A tornado watch remained in effect for three dozen counties across New York state until 3 p.m. on Thursday, according to the National Weather Service in Buffalo. These counties, primarily located in central, northern, and eastern New York, faced risks including potential tornado activity, isolated hail, and strong wind gusts.
What happens next?
As the weather system moves out of the region, utility crews may begin the process of restoring power to the thousands of residents currently affected by outages. While the immediate threat of tornado activity may diminish as the watch expires, residents could see continued debris-related hazards on roadways due to the earlier high winds. Further assessments of the damage are likely to follow once the severe weather threat fully subsides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the strongest wind gusts recorded in New York?
The highest recorded gust was 57 mph in Buffalo, followed by 55 mph in Rochester and 53 mph in Fredonia.
How many counties were under a tornado watch?
A tornado watch was in effect for three dozen counties in central, northern, and eastern New York through 3 p.m. on Thursday.
Why are there power outages across the state?
According to weather reports, high winds caused tree branches and other items to snap, which resulted in power outages for thousands of utility customers.
How has the storm affected the utility services in your local area?
