Residents in shock following unexpected windstorm that hits Palmetto mobile home community.

Key Information

• Location: Shadow Brook Mobile Home Park, Palmetto, FL
• Event: Sudden windstorm with unanticipated winds
• Wind Speeds: 45 to 55 miles per hour
• Damage: At least two homes lost roofs; carports and debris scattered
• Emergency Response: Over 30 tarps delivered by Manatee County’s Emergency Management
• Injuries: None reported

PALMETTO, Fla. — Residents of Shadow Brook Mobile Home Park are in shock after an unexpected wind event swept through Palmetto over the weekend. “No warning we didn’t know,” lamented neighbor Evelyn Thomas.

Watch full report from Annette Gutierrez

Neighbors reeling after sudden windstorm damages Palmetto mobile home park

“I had no time to react,” shared William Meade, a local resident. “I was scared for about a second, and then it was over.” As strong winds battered the area on Sunday, carports and debris were seen flying through the air, leaving residents to deal with the aftermath.

“It was done, and the carport was gone,” recalled Meade. “It took seconds.” North River Fire Rescue reported to Tampa Bay 28 that at least two homes lost their roofs due to what the National Weather Service is classifying as a thunderstorm wind event.

As reporter Annette Gutierrez walked through the affected neighborhood, she discovered one homeowner had lost their entire roof, while Meade faced the loss of his carport. “When I came out here, I was in shock,” said Meade, recalling how he was initially overwhelmed by what he saw. “I looked up and was just like wait, what…”

Meade described the moment in vivid detail: “It sounded like a bulldozer came through my house. The sound of the metal, the sheet metal sliding across my roof made me realize something wasn’t right.” His wife instinctively grabbed their kids in a panic, but by then, the storm had already passed.

The National Weather Service stated that the wind speeds ranged from 45 to 55 miles per hour, but their analysis suggested it did not follow the pattern of a typical tornado. “It was scary,” expressed Thomas, reflecting on the fear felt by her and her mother. “It felt like a tornado.”

Thomas recounted that she and her family were sitting in the living room when they heard a noise that left her fearing it might come right through their home. Thankfully, no injuries were reported; however, Manatee County’s Emergency Management team acted quickly, delivering over 30 tarps to help shield the damaged structures. Residents were grateful for the community support, noting the efforts of the county and local fire departments.

“It was wonderful; everybody was coming out, looking and seeing if everyone was alright,” Thomas said, expressing her appreciation for the collective response. “It was very nice.”