Strong winds hit area, knocking down some trees, construction

A wind advisory remains in effect for our area, with wind gusts of up to 55 mph possible but the worst of the winds appear to be over.

The National Weather Service is warning of southeast winds of 25 to 35 mph and gusts of up to 55 mph. Forecasters say the winds could blow down trees and power lines.

Shannon Cooke, director of emergency management for Bartholomew County says that the greatest danger appears to be past, but there is still a chance of dangerous straight line winds.

So far, the county has largely seen minor damages today, with some trees being knocked down by the winds including one on Interstate 65 near the Walesboro exit. Witnesses say that the new construction at the former gas station site at the corner of 11th and Washington Streets in downtown Columbus was blown down by the winds.

Cooke said similar winds knocked down a building under construction in the Walesboro area about a decade ago.

You should use extra caution if you are driving, especially if you are in a high-profile vehicle, Cooke said.

The wind advisory is in effect until 7 p.m. this evening.

Photo by White River Broadcasting.