The Hailstorm that Rocked Columbia, Missouri
Columbia, Missouri residents were rocked by a severe hailstorm that caused significant property damage on Friday afternoon. According to the ABC 17 Stormtrack Weather Team, the storm included hail that ranged in size from ping pong to baseball size. The hail rained down on homes, cars, and businesses in Boone County, causing extensive damage.
Responding to the Damage
In response to the damage caused by the hailstorm, restoration and construction businesses have been responding to calls for property damage in the area. However, concerns have been raised about contractors from out of state trying to take advantage of the situation.
One local business owner, Joe McDevitt from Black and White Roofing, urged residents to be cautious about choosing restoration companies. He warned that hail could damage any shingle regardless of its age or quality. As such, residents are advised to research and choose reliable and secure restoration companies to avoid scams and further property damage.
The Extent of the Damage
The hailstorm caused damage to several homes in the Cedar Creek Homes area, leading to broken windshields and dented trucks. Camping World RV also sustained damages that affected their RVs and employees’ cars during the storm. Meanwhile, several patrol cars belonging to Cooper County Sheriff’s Office were also damaged.
Photos and videos shared by ABC 17 News viewers showed the extent of damage caused by the hailstorm. Roadways were covered in hail while several cars had broken windows and dented hoods. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Severe Weather Conditions in Missouri
Missouri has been experiencing severe weather conditions with a Severe Thunderstorm Warning in effect for southeastern Ozark County and southern Howell County until 5:15 p.m. Friday. Meanwhile, high wind gusts have been reported in areas along the I49 corridor in Missouri. Trees, power lines, electric poles, and telephone poles reportedly crossed roads during the storm.
However, a Severe Thunderstorm Warning was cancelled for parts of Webster, Wright, and Laclede Counties due to a weakened storm. The greatest severe weather threat has been moving across Stockton, Pomme De Terre, Truman Lakes area northward into central Missouri.
Tornado Watch and Hail Warnings
A Tornado Watch has been issued until 8 p.m. Friday for eastern Ozarks with hail up to the size of golf balls, damaging winds of 70 miles per hour and a few tornadoes possible. There is a significant tornado threat for an EF2+ twister along and east of Highway 63 in south-central and southeast Missouri.
Despite the hail warnings causing property damage in Columbia, there is low flooding potential with this system. However, a High Wind Warning has been issued for areas west of Springfield with maximum wind gusts as high as 45 to 60 miles per hour.
Staying Local for Property Restoration Services
Although the hailstorm caused significant property damage in Columbia, residents are advised to stay local when seeking restoration services. By doing so, they can avoid potential scams and ensure that their properties are restored reliably and securely.
Residents who experienced damage from the storm are urged to share their photos of the hailstorm with the newsroom by sending them to news@kmiz.com.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
