(Lamar, CO) -- The weekend has been rough on SE Colorado. Monday, residents in and around Lamar are posting photos and videos of damage that was believed to be a tornado.
Although, likely it was not.
National Weather Service Meteorologist Greg Heavener tells Colorado News Your Way that is was likely a Microburst or possibly just strong straight line winds.
The National Weather Service website describes a microburst as
A microburst is a localized column of sinking air (downdraft) within a thunderstorm and is usually less than or equal to 2.5 miles in diameter. Microbursts can cause extensive damage at the surface, and in some instances, can be life-threatening. There are two primary types of microbursts: 1) wet microbursts and 2) dry microbursts. Wet microbursts are accompanied by significant precipitation and are common in the Southeast during the summer months. (National weather service website: https://www.weather.gov/bmx/outreach_microbursts)
A severe thunderstorm warning was issued for Crowley, Otero, Bent, Kiowa and Prowers counties last night. Heavy rains and strong winds pushed the storms east into the Lamar area between 9 and 11 pm according to radar.
There was extensive damage done to the radio station in Lamar, KLMR 920 which is located on the curve on the westside of town over the weekend. Heavy rains and wind caused damage to the roof and many offices inside the building. A public post from the station explains what happened.
Lamar resident Madison Buxton showed their damage in a series of photos and a video on Facebook. She reports they're all ok to include the horses.
The forecast for Monday has a chance of thunderstorms after 4pm. Temperatures should stay in the 80s Monday, with low 90s expected for Tuesday.
And Meteorologist Greg wanted to share this site,
which he says is a good one to describe wind types. As always, be safe when severe weather hits and check with us AFTER you download a weather alert to your phone.
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