Emergency teams and residents of the American city of Philadelphia have launched extensive operations to clear the aftermath of violent thunderstorms that struck the city on Saturday evening, leaving significant damage to buildings and infrastructure.
Winds ranging in speed between 97 and 113 kilometres per hour caused power outages, uprooted trees, and flooded a number of streets, in addition to the collapse of a building in West Philadelphia and damage to several vehicles and residential structures.
The National Weather Service confirmed that the phenomenon resulted from straight-line winds rather than a tornado, amid an extreme weather event gripping the United States.
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker declared a state of emergency, affirming that all available resources were being mobilised to restore essential services, while rescue teams continue to evacuate those affected and clear debris.