I-94 derecho facts for kids

The I-94 derecho was a powerful wind storm that swept across parts of the United States on July 19, 1983. A derecho is a widespread, long-lived wind storm that is linked with a band of rapidly moving thunderstorms. This particular storm mainly affected Minnesota and Wisconsin, but its path stretched across several states.

The Storm's Journey

Starting in North Dakota

The I-94 derecho began as a storm system in Montana. It first hit North Dakota at 7 a.m. CDT. The city of Minot experienced strong winds, reaching speeds of up to 70 miles per hour.

Moving Through Minnesota

After North Dakota, the storm moved into Minnesota. The winds became even stronger here. At the Alexandria Airport, wind speeds were recorded at an incredible 100 miles per hour. The derecho reached Minneapolis by 4 p.m. CDT. This powerful storm left a quarter of a million people without electricity.

Impacting Wisconsin

Next, the derecho continued its path into Wisconsin. A weather expert at the University of Wisconsin-Madison noticed the storm approaching. The strong winds were so powerful that they even blew out windows on the university campus.

Reaching Illinois and Beyond

By 9 p.m. CDT, the derecho had moved into Illinois. In Chicago, wind gusts reached 70 miles per hour. The storm also caused a quick drop in temperature, falling 14°F in just 20 minutes. The I-94 derecho finally ended in northwestern Indiana around midnight on July 20.

Images for kids

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  Map of the I-94 Derecho (Courtesy of NOAA)