'Whoosh': Tree Falls on Columbia Residence, Nobody Reportedly Home

COLUMBIA, MD — Trees toppled over in Columbia Monday afternoon as winds gusted across the region. The National Weather Service had issued a wind advisory for most of the day. Preliminary data showed that 45 and 46 mph winds were recorded Monday morning in Ellicott City and Columba, respectively.

Several trees fell in a neighborhood in the 10400 block of Schoolmaster Place midday in Columbia, according to the Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services.

A man told WJZ that he was sitting at his breakfast table when he heard a "whoosh," followed by a "crack" as a tree fell onto the house next door, where the neighbors were said to be in Florida.

By 1 p.m., Howard County fire and rescue officials said they had cleared the scene.

Anyone who sees a tree that has come down in Howard County should keep a safe distance and report the incident to 911. Downed trees may have wires on them that could be dangerous, officials said.

Photo Credit: Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services.