December 23, 2003
Tuesday - 12:45 am

Ketchikan, Alaska - A strong frontal system to the south generated significantly higher wind conditions than expected for Alaska's first city. According to the Federal Aviation Flight Service staff, peak roof winds at Ketchikan International Airport were gusting at 100 mph between midnight Sunday and 6 am on Monday.The Flight Service staff also reported 75 mph winds gusting on the runway at Ketchikan International Airport Sunday.

Wade Jardine of PROMECH AIR's found one of PROMECH's Beavers damaged at 4:00 am Monday. Jardine said the plane was well secured and checked Sunday evening. Jardine said when he checked the plane early Monday morning, the two thousand pound blocks which secured the wings were moved and one block was tipped on its side. Jardine said the wing ropes broke from the load. He noted the ropes were fairly new and in good condition. Jardine said, "I would have to say the wind predictions were under estimated."

In addition to putting PROMECH AIR's Beaver N995WA out of service, high winds and rain felled trees, claimed shingles, and contributed to the closure of one road north of Ketchikan due to a slide. The annual holiday Boat Parade was also canceled Sunday evening due to the weather conditions and took place Monday evening.

High winds and rain continued throughout the day on Monday with the FAA Flight Service staff reporting gusts up to 63 mph around midnight. High winds and rain were expected to continue through Tuesday morning.

From midnight Saturday through midnight Monday, 5.28 inches of rain fell at Ketchikan International Airport according to the FAA Flight Service staff.

 

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