The Bethesda Park Condominiums complex, in the area of Randolph Rd. and Parklawn Dr., was one of the hardest hit when the sever storms rolled through late Saturday afternoon. According to Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services Chief spokesperson Pete Piringer, a “microburst” could have been responsible for dozens of trees were knocked down and many of them were blown into or on top of buildings. A microburst is is a localized column of sinking air (downdraft) within a thunderstorm that can cause extensive damage at the surface.
A large crane was already on the scene earlier today helping with dozens of crews clear the trees that are now scattered across the complex and roofs of the buildings. Dozens of residents have been displaced and many remain without power into Saturday night. The county has set up shelters that many residents will be going to for the night. There are no known injuries
Piringer stated that there were more than 200 calls for service during this afternoon’s storms, primarily for trees and wires down. Severe damage was seen across the county with Rockville, North Bethesda, Wheaton, and Kensington seemingly getting the brunt of the storm.
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