Storm reports from Saturday, May 27
Through the afternoon hours mid-Missouri saw a line of storms that created a bow echo as it passed. Strong winds, large hail, and a tornado were caused by this system. We saw several severe thunderstorm warnings issued, as well as a few tornado warnings. There have been numerous storm reports issued from the National Weather Service, along with reports from ABC 17 viewers.
The National Weather Service had numerous hail reports. Fort Leonard Wood in Pulaski County saw half dollar sized hail. In Osage County at 3:05 PM there were reports of quarter sized hail. Camden County saw 1″ hail near Roach.
A viewer sent us a photo where we received a report of golf ball sized hail in Benton County at Warsaw. Credit to Mike Jacobs.
As the line of storms bowed tracking through the mid-Missouri, winds became an increasing threat. Gusts with this system were estimated up to 70 mph. Numerous wind reports were documented by the National Weather Service. In Johnson County trees were reported down on the UCM Campus, which blocked the flow of traffic. Cole County also saw a large tree down in Brazito. High winds of 61 mph were observed in Saline County as reported by a storm chaser. Morgan and Cooper Counties saw numerous power lines and trees down near Highway 5 and Highway 135. Along Route D there was multiple tree limbs down in Cole County.
In Moniteau County there were also downed trees and a transformer caught fire. Columbia Regional Airport saw minor damage to several tents set up for the air show. U.S. Highway 54 saw a large tree that was split in half covering the roadway in Callaway County. A tree was also blocking highway 63 near the Freeburg area in Osage County.
A viewer sent us a photo of an uprooted tree in Eldon, Miller County, with multiple power lines down. There were reports of power lines down in Rock Island Park in Eldon. Credit to Sharon Barsby.
The National Weather Service did report one tornado in Laclede County, outside our viewing area. This was radar indicated as a wall cloud with rotation crossed I-44. Damage included multiple overturned trucks with moderate structural damage.
Severe thunderstorm watches have begun to drop in mid-Missouri. Into Sunday, we could see spotty showers that will remain light with nothing severe. As for the rest of your memorial day weekend we expect dry and warmer conditions. Monday will be sunny with temperatures in the 80s!
