Ulster County Woman, 77, Killed by Falling Tree

Dangerous Winds Whip Across the Hudson Valley

Between Thursday October 30th and Friday October 31st, 2025, Hudson Valley residents found themselves batting strong winds.

According to Hudson Valley Weather reported on October 29th that a " deep upper level trough has moved into the Ohio Valley" and would develop into "intensifying storm systems.

That storm system brought clouds, heavy rains and very strong winds. Flooding and power outages were expected across the region. On Friday October 31st, 2025, the National Weather Service announced a Wind Advisory and the region experienced winds gusting up to 35 miles per hour making for dangerous travel.

Reports also came in about trees and power lines down.

Fallen Tree Takes The Life of Ulster County Woman

A fallen tree during the storm caused a deadly accident in Ulster County.

In a statement on Facebook they share that on the afternoon of October 31st deputies "responded to the area of 2539 Route 44 55 in the Town of Gardiner for a report of a motor vehicle accident with serious injuries involved."

When crews arrived at the scene they located a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 in the middle of the road "which sustained significant damage."

The driver of the vehicle, a 79-year old man from Gardiner, was treated at the scene and transported to Mid-Hudson Regional Hospital in Poughkeepsie "for treatment of potentially serious injuries."

Sadly the passenger, a 77-year-old female, was pronounced dead at the scene.

According to the press release, the investigation "indicates the vehicle was traveling eastbound on State Route 44 55 when a large tree fell and crushed the cab of the vehicle."

At the scene the Ulster County Sheriff's Office was assisted by the following outlets:

New York State Police
Gardiner Fire Department
New Paltz Rescue Squad
New York State Department of Transportation
Central Hudson

Wind Safety Tips For New Yorkers

In the event of another dangerous, windy storm in the area, the National Weather Service has a full page dedicated to keeping yourself safe.

They detail how to stay safe at home, outside and while on the water.

While driving in dangerous winds, reduce your speed significantly, avoid bridges and overpasses and be aware of hazards like branches, trees and powerlines.

Additionally, they tell drivers to keep both hands on the wheel and "Be prepared for strong gusts that can pull your vehicle off course.