On January 17, 1982, a powerful windstorm hit Colorado, producing gusts of up to 137 mph and causing $20 million in damages. Approximately 40% of local structures sustained damage, with some homes rendered uninhabitable. The storm injured at least 15 people, highlighting the region’s susceptibility to extreme winds, a result of geographical conditions.
On January 17, 1982, a fierce windstorm struck the Front Range of Colorado, delivering gusts comparable to those seen atop mountains or within hurricane eyewalls. Notably, a weather sensor southwest of Boulder recorded gusts peaking at 137 mph and documented 20 instances of wind reaching 120 mph or more. The storm inflicted substantial damage across the region, impacting around 40 percent of structures in Boulder.
The aftermath of the windstorm was severe, with 50 homes rendered uninhabitable and significant destruction to 20 small planes at Boulder’s airport. Overall, the windstorm caused approximately $20 million in damages, marking the costliest wind event in Colorado at that time. Reports indicate that at least 15 individuals sustained injuries, predominantly minor cuts, while an elderly woman fractured her hip after falling from her mobile home due to the winds displacing her porch steps.
The geography of the Front Range makes it particularly vulnerable to high winds as air collides with the mountainous terrain and funnels through canyons, creating conditions similar to Southern California’s Santa Ana winds. The information presented was featured in the Morning Brief newsletter by The Weather Channel, providing readers with significant updates and analyses concerning emerging weather phenomena.
Jonathan Erdman, a senior meteorologist with considerable experience in national and international weather reporting, emphasizes extreme weather events which he finds particularly fascinating. For continued insights, readers are encouraged to follow him on Bluesky, X (formerly Twitter), and Facebook.
The article discusses a significant windstorm that impacted Boulder, Colorado, on January 17, 1982, illustrating the storm’s intensity, its effects on the local community, and the specific meteorological conditions that contributed to such extreme weather. Understanding the forces at play in the Front Range is crucial for comprehending why this region experiences such powerful winds. Previous similar wind events emphasize the region’s vulnerability, highlighting the importance of weather preparedness for residents.
In conclusion, the January 17, 1982 windstorm serves as a stark reminder of the destructive potential of extreme weather in the Front Range of Colorado. With recorded gusts reaching unprecedented speeds and widespread damage inflicted, the event underscores the necessity for continued vigilance and preparedness in the face of such natural phenomena. The impact of such storms can lead to substantial economic costs and personal injuries, necessitating a focus on safety and weather monitoring.
Original Source: weather.com
