Residents in southern Star Valley are assessing damage Saturday morning after a powerful storm whipped through the area Friday evening, leaving a trail of downed trees, broken power poles and damaged homes.

The storm hit at roughly 7:30 p.m. The National Weather Service said the event was “a microburst with the storm strengthening quickly and then dropping its core of rain and hail just as quickly directly over the valley between Smoot and Afton.” Strong winds, heavy rain and 1/2 inch sized hail were observed. While not confirmed by meteorologists, some Smoot residents reported a tornado. There have also been unofficial reports of winds as strong as 144 miles per hour.

Residents in Fairview have reported a lightning strike started a fire near the “F” on the hill west of town, but was quickly put out by rainfall.

The storm knocked out power to the entire area. CEO Bear Prairie said it immediately became an “all hands on deck situation” with local crews working to restore power, assisted by LVE crews from Jackson and private contractors.  Anywhere from 15-25 power poles were determined to be broke, with multiple downed power lines and trees falling on top of lines. Service was restored to roughly half the area by about 10:10 p.m. Crews continued to work through the night, with LVE reporting power was restored to all but about 10 customers by 9:30 a.m. Saturday morning.  Crews continue to work restoring the remaining power and rebuild infrastructure.

Images of the destruction after the event includes homes with broken windows and damage to roofs and siding. In some cases, this damage is severe. Additionally there are multiple fallen trees, some that have fallen on buildings, vehicles and other property.

There remains a threat of thunderstorm activity in the area on Saturday. The National Weather Service-Riverton Office states that damaging wind is the main threat, but large hail and heavy rain remain possible.

Lincoln Count Sheriff said assistance has been offered and is available for anyone who may have been displaced from their home by the storm, however no one has needed the assistance. Neighbors and local church congregations are also reaching out in multiple ways to help those effected by the storm.