Fact Check: "Wind gusts reached 106 mph in Bemidji, causing severe damage."
What We Know
On a recent weekend, a powerful storm system swept through the upper Midwest, resulting in significant damage and loss of life. The National Weather Service reported that wind gusts reached 106 mph at the Bemidji Regional Airport just before 1 a.m. on Saturday, which contributed to extensive damage across the area, including downed trees and power lines (CBS News, Fox Weather). The storm also resulted in a tornado that caused fatalities in North Dakota, highlighting the severity of the weather conditions affecting both states (CBS News, Bring Me The News).
Analysis
The claim that wind gusts reached 106 mph in Bemidji is supported by multiple credible sources. The National Weather Service's Grand Forks branch confirmed this measurement, which is critical for establishing the reliability of the information (CBS News, Bring Me The News). Additionally, eyewitness accounts from local officials and residents corroborate the extent of the damage caused by these winds. For instance, Beltrami County emergency manager Christopher Muller described the damage as "extensive," with numerous reports of roofs torn off buildings and fallen trees (Fox Weather, KSTP).
The sources used in this analysis are reputable, including major news outlets and the National Weather Service, which are known for their accuracy and reliability in reporting weather-related events. The consistency across these reports strengthens the credibility of the claim.
Conclusion
The claim that wind gusts reached 106 mph in Bemidji, causing severe damage, is True. The evidence from multiple credible sources confirms the wind speed and the resulting destruction, including significant property damage and power outages in the area.
Sources
- At least 3 dead after tornado rips through North Dakota, northern ...
- Deadly derecho leaves trail of damage as tornadoes, 100+ mph winds ...
- 100+ mph wind gust reported in Bemidji, leaving extensive ...
- Beltrami County suffers devastating storm damage from 106 MPH winds ...
- Tornado kills 3 in North Dakota, 106 mph gust slams northern Minnesota
