Damaging Winds in Maine, August 24, 1998

A severe thunderstorm moved rapidly from the New Hampshire border to the Maine coast. Extensive damage occurred along the storm's path with numerous trees down and road closures. Many homes and vehicles were struck by falling trees. Electrical service was knocked out to more than 30,000 customers in southwestern Maine. Significant damages were reported in Parsonsfield, Limerick, Limington, Cornish, Hollis, and Buxton in York County; and in Standish, Windham, Gorham, Westbrook, Portland, South Portland, Scarborough, Freeport, and on Long Island in Cumberland County. Trees were also blown down in Phippsburg in Sagadahoc County. The University of Southern Maine in Gorham reported $42,000 in damages. At the Portland Jetport, winds gusted to 70 mph. Public damages were estimated to be about $600,000 while private damages were estimated to be over 2 million dollars. Wind speeds were estimated to be greater than 58 mph based on the damage to trees.