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Downward Wind Burst Hit D.C. Area

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(Image credit: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA))

A violent storm lashed northern Virginia Sunday evening (July 3), toppling trees and powerlines.

Arlington, VA bore the brunt of the storm where downed trees smashed cars and fell into homes. The National Weather Service estimates winds were between 60 to 70 mph (97 to 113 kph) at the height of the storm.

The National Weather Service classified the storm as a macro burst, a downward burst of strong winds that hit the ground and spread damage in all directions up to 2.5 miles (4 km) in mere minutes.

This image from the GOES East satellite at 7:45 p.m. ET on July 3 shows the burst forming.

Live Science Staff
Live Science Staff
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