Hey everyone,

I wanted to take a moment to break down the major storm outbreak that rocked Central New York in the early hours of Sunday, June 22, 2025. If you were in the path of the storms—or following the news afterward—you know just how devastating and fast-moving these storms were. Here's a full recap of what happened, how it formed, and the damage it left behind.

⛈️ What Set It All in Motion?

This was no ordinary summer thunderstorm. The setup started days earlier out west with a derecho (a long-lasting line of severe thunderstorms with strong winds) that formed over the Northern Plains. That same system moved eastward and tapped into hot, humid air sitting over New York. Combine that with a sharp cold front and strong upper-level winds, and you had the perfect recipe for overnight chaos.

By the time the storms rolled into our area just after 3:30 a.m., everything was in place for severe thunderstorms—and, unfortunately, tornadoes.

🌪️ Two Tornadoes Confirmed

The first tornado struck Clark Mills in Oneida County around 3:58 a.m. It was an EF-1 with winds up to 105 mph. It traveled about 2.4 miles and caused heartbreaking damage. Most tragically, it claimed the lives of six-year-old twins Emily and Kenni Bisson, and their neighbor Shelly Johnson, after trees fell onto their homes.

The second tornado was confirmed later that day by the National Weather Service in western Herkimer County. It was also an EF-1, with estimated winds around 90 mph. This one didn’t cause any deaths, but it did snap trees and damage property before lifting.

🌊 It Wasn’t Just Tornadoes: Flash Flooding and Wind Damage Too

Alongside the tornadoes came powerful straight-line winds—over 70 mph in some places—and 3 to 5 inches of rain that fell fast and furiously. Roads flooded out in towns like Norwich, Sherburne, Canastota, and New Berlin. Some neighborhoods were completely cut off, and many homes experienced basement flooding.

The National Weather Service even issued Flash Flood Emergencies, something you don’t see every day around here.

⚠️ The Aftermath

By sunrise, the devastation was widespread. Over 50,000 people were without power, roads were closed due to fallen trees and debris, and some residents were trapped in their homes. Local first responders, highway crews, and volunteers jumped into action to help with search, rescue, cleanup, and power restoration.

Governor Hochul declared a state of emergency in 32 counties, bringing in state help for the cleanup and support operations. Meanwhile, crews worked around the clock to clear roads and bring back the power.

🕯️ Why Overnight Storms Are So Dangerous

These storms hit while most people were sleeping, which made them even more dangerous. Nighttime tornadoes are harder to detect and respond to—especially when they spin up quickly like these did. There’s not always enough warning to act.

That’s why it’s so important to have weather alerts on your phone, a NOAA weather radio by your bed, and a family emergency plan you can put into action fast.

💪 Central New York Always Rallies

Despite the destruction and heartbreak, what stood out most was the resilience and unity of the community. People helped neighbors clear debris. Volunteers delivered supplies to those without power. And folks all over Central New York checked in on each other.

We’re no strangers to strong storms—but this one was a serious wake-up call.

🔗 Stay Connected

If you want more weather updates, storm breakdowns, or just want to stay informed in a no-nonsense way, follow me here and on social media. I’ll keep doing my best to help you stay ahead of the weather—before it turns dangerous.

Thanks for reading—and most importantly, stay safe out there.

—Big Al