The strongest gusts of wind were recorded at 2:00 p.m. in the Vidzeme region, measuring 20-24 meters per second. Winds measuring 22 meters per second were recorded at the Rīga Free Port, while the city center recorded 21 meters per second. Predictions show winds continuing throughout the afternoon, reaching 25 meters per second in the Vidzeme and Latgale regions.
Ceturtdienas pēcpusdienā daudzviet Latvijā rietumu, ziemeļrietumu vēja ātrums brāzmās pārsniedz 20 metrus sekundē. VUGD jau saņēmis daudzus izsaukumus saistībā ar vēja radītajiem postījumiem. Lielākoties glābēji novāc kokus no ceļa braucamās daļas. Šādi skati vērojami Ogrē. pic.twitter.com/jRnHYHAUZR
— LTV Ziņu dienests (@ltvzinas) April 16, 2020
Local social media profiles show torn down trees all across Latvia, with a birth tree even falling onto a car in Ogre.
Winds will die down overnight, but pick up again on Friday, however they should only reach up to 15-20 meters per second and not cause as much damage.
LTV previously warned that the strong winds would cause damage:
"Stadales tīkls" offers some tips on their website for what to do during a wind storm:
- Before you call, check the online map if the company is already aware of the issue
- Figure out where your fuse box is located so you can check it if necessary
- Don't go near power lines and call 8404 or 112 in case of emergency
- Renew your contact information so the company can easily contact you if necessary
