Strong winds knock down massive tree in Riverwest neighborhood

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Windy conditions are causing problems throughout the area, from power outages to downed trees.

One Milwaukee neighborhood feels lucky tonight after a massive tree came crashing down, but it missed hitting any houses and everyone is okay.

It was about 6 p.m. when the tree was blown over in the Riverwest neighborhood. 

“My roommate was home at the time, and he said it kind of sounded like a bomb," said Collin Papenfuss, who lives across the street.

Kim Kelly loved the tree that stood outside her home as long as she’s lived there.

“I heard something, but I wasn’t sure what it was. Then I looked out here and saw this," said Kelly.

But Thursday's high winds toppled the tree, ripping the massive trunk from the roots.

 “I think the city will be happy because it was marked to come down," said Kelly. 

But neighbors said there were signs the tree wasn’t going to last much longer.

"It had a red marking on it. I didn't want to lose it, but I think the city will be happy," said Kelly.

"My neighbors had mentioned that it was marked for removal for maybe a year or more," said Papenfuss.

Three Milwaukee DPW crews worked quickly to clear the tree in less than an hour.

Despite its size, it did not damage any power lines or homes.

One car did have damage to the front and rear windshields, but since no one was hurt, some could joke about their luck.

"They made a pretty nice joke about having a bonfire in their front yard," said Papenfuss.

There was no firewood, unfortunately, as DPW crews hauled it all away.

A woman across the street said her upstairs neighbor owns the car that was smashed, and she's pretty upset about it right now. Again, no injuries were reported.