WILLIAMSBURG — A swift-moving storm struck shortly before 8 p.m., toppling trees and power lines, and causing significant property damage, including three homes hit by falling trees.
The most severe incident involved a tree on Petticoat Hill Road that fell and damaged a 500-gallon propane tank near a motor vehicle.
The tank, nearly full, could not be shut off and had to be emptied by the propane company due to a gas leak.
High gas levels prompted evacuations in the affected area, with Anne T. Dunphy School opening as a temporary shelter for those displaced.
Despite evacuation orders and high gas readings, occupants of a Williams Street home refused to vacate, ignoring the warnings of emergency personnel.
As of now, multiple trees and power lines remain down.
Emergency crews, including the Goshen Fire Department, are working tirelessly through the night and will continue into tomorrow to clear debris and restore power.
The Williamsburg Police and Fire Department expressed gratitude for the community’s patience and cooperation during the cleanup efforts.
Special thanks were also extended to Northampton Control Dispatch Center for their exemplary coordination during the emergency.
