A microburst is defined by Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary as “an intense, localized downdraft of air that spreads on the ground, causing rapid changes in wind direction and speed.” I have witnessed the aftermath of a microburst, and the best comparison I can think of is the destruction of a wide tornado. In June of 2024, an intense weather event ravaged a central Pennsylvania golf course during the early evening with golfers still on the course. This microburst left over 320 mature trees on the ground or ripped apart. More recently, in April a line of intense storms with over 75 mph winds left destruction in Maryland. Well over 100 trees were uprooted or twisted off, fences were pulled over, trees landed on cars and there was no electricity for days. This was a completely unexpected event and has been a test of preparedness. In fact, strong storms just hit the Pittsburgh area during preparations for the U.S. Open at Oakmont.
Generally, hurricanes and tropical storms are predicted well before they make landfall, giving residents and golf courses some time to prepare. On the contrary, these microburst-type storms form intensely and quickly with little warning, which means you need to have a plan in advance in case one strikes your course. There are lots of ways you can prepare.
Having a list of employee and golf course officials’ contact information and knowing utility shut-off locations are top priorities. When the devastation is significant, knowing the course’s insurance provider is important to sort out policy details. Hiring a local land clearing company may be more efficient than your regular certified arborist if many trees and limbs are down as land clearing companies are equipped to quickly finish felling trees, move them off-site and grind debris. There are benefits to both types of tree care companies in the aftermath of a severe storm – one for the heavy hauling and the other for dealing with partially damaged trees that need precise pruning.
In your turf facility, always ensure chain saws are sharp and ready to go, and portable fuel cans are stored full. Electricity may be out for days, so know what size of portable generator is needed as well as the best connection method to power your irrigation pump station if a devastating event occurs. Assess the property for staff safety prior to beginning any cleanup work, and nobody should be on the course alone. Take photos of everything and keep track of all in-house labor, repair supplies, contractor costs and rentals that are part of the cleanup effort – these figures will be added to lost revenues for insurance. Reach out to your regional USGA agronomist to assist with course recovery and tree damage evaluation. Unfortunately, this agronomist has been through it more than once.
Northeast Region Agronomists:
Darin Bevard, senior director, Championship Agronomy – dbevard@usga.org
Elliott L. Dowling, regional director, East Region – edowling@usga.org
Brian Gietka, agronomist – bgietka@usga.org
Information on the USGA’s Course Consulting Service
Contact the Green Section Staff