WELD COUNTY, Colo. — A strong storm that moved through Weld County has caused several power outages and school closures Friday morning.
The storm crashed around the county around 3:30 and 4 a.m. Residents have reported damage around Keenesburg.
A meteorologist with the National Weather Service said it did not appear that a tornado formed in the area, however there was a lot of rain, hail and wind. The NWS reported that all damage was due to straight-line winds. Gusts reached about 80 mph, NWS said.
Damage survey has confirmed all straight line wind damage in Keenesburg. Damage indicated wind gusts to around 80mph. #COwx
— NWS Boulder (@NWSBoulder) August 20, 2021
School has been canceled at Hoff Elementary, Weld Central Middle School, and Weld Central High School due to the damage and ongoing power outage.
Other schools in the area — including Hudson Elementary, Lochbuie Elementary, Meadow Ridge Elementary, and Cardinal Community Academy — will stay on their normal schedule.
Online Innovation students should continue with their learning, according to Weld Central Middle School. Those without power will be excused.
According to United Power, crews are working to restore power in the Keenesburg area. About 16 meters are still out as of 8:15 a.m.
Xcel Energy has a transmission line down along Highway 52 between Fort Lupton and Hudson and crews have isolated the line. About 20 customers are without power in this area.
This is a developing story and will be updated.
