Straight-line winds cause extensive damage in Maxatawny Township, Pennsylvania

MAXATAWNY TWP., Pennsylvania (WPVI) -- The National Weather Service says straight-line winds from Sunday night's severe weather caused extensive damage in and around Maxatawny Township, Berks County.

On Monday, the NWS surveyed the damage and determined that 80 mph straight-line winds left a trail of destruction in the township.

Several local farms endured some of the heaviest damage.

Kyle Henninger, owner of Henninger Farm in nearby Upper Macungie Township, Lehigh County, says he was actually on his way to help his neighbor whose property was also damaged before realizing part of his barn was missing.

"I looked up and I could see a hole in the roof and, I mean, even that edge of the gable there blew over. It's still laying in the garden over there on the other side of the farm and I have eight doors that are literally smashed in," said Henninger.

The trail of destruction also includes clipped trees, toppled walls, and debris as far as the eye can see.

Weather officials say this is a prime example of nature's potential power.

"It's not always just about the wind speed, estimated wind speed, because straight-line wind damage can, and sometimes does, cause much greater damage than a weak brief tornado can," said Staarmann.

Hundreds of homes and businesses in that region remain without power. Fortunately, no serious injuries have been reported.