CLT Storm Damage: Homeowners Brace for Falling Trees
Charlotte, NC — Mother nature showed no mercy Sunday, even with pouring rains behind Charlotte. Winds whipped giant trees onto houses, power lines and cars.
“Heard like a huge thud. We were both asleep and woke up came out just saw the carnage,” said Jeff Barnhart. “It is terrible.”
That was 7:30 Sunday morning at Commonwealth Avenue and Westover Street.
Crews could only cover the roof with plastic tarps to shield the inside from the elements.
The three people who lived there were too shaken to talk as they moved out until the city can remove the tree.
“They were all safe,” said Barnhart.
Hours earlier, downtown Matthews went dark. Police blocked the dangerous downed power lines after a tree fell on Kristopher’s Sports Bar and Restaurant. It took out the awning in front of the building and trapped three cars. Everyone was inside and safe.
By late Sunday evening, utility workers were still repairing damage there, businesses powerless and traffic stalled.
“It’s making it difficult,” said Maya Losarde. “You have to go five or six miles out of the way, which with traffic, takes time.”
The ground is so wet, trees can’t withstand the 30 mph winds.
“My main concern is the safety of myself and, you know, my home,” said East Charlotte Resident Dana McDonald.
The city is expected to remove the tree from the home on Commonwealth Ave. on Monday.
Utility workers predict power will be restored in Matthews by 10:00 Sunday evening.
