Brookfield Slammed by 'Macroburst:' National Weather Service

BROOKFIELD, CT-- The National Weather Service has confirmed that a macroburst hit Brookfield Tuesday, causing damage.

A macroburst is a meteorological term that describes an area of strong, downward moving air associated with a downdraft from a thunderstorm, spanning less than 2.5 miles. As the wind hits the ground, it forces air out in all directions around it. The result is severe wind damage near to the surface of the ground, as well as horizontal rotation midway up between the ground and the base of the thundercloud.

The macroburst was just one feature of a severe storm that has wreaked havoc across the state. Two people are reported dead from its effects, and thousands remain without power.

Photo contributed by Carolyn Russo.