April 23, 2025

Severe Storms Cause Significant Damage and Power Outages in Columbia, MO

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News Summary

Columbia, MO is experiencing severe storms resulting in extensive damage and widespread power outages. With an 80% chance of rain and damaging winds expected, residents are advised to take precautions. The storms have interrupted utility services and transportation, prompting the Columbia Fire Department to respond to numerous calls related to storm damage. The situation remains critical with warnings of tornadoes and flooding as more storms are forecasted into Thursday night.

Severe Storms Cause Significant Damage and Power Outages in Columbia, MO

Columbia, MO is bracing for a series of severe storms that are set to hit the area today, with the weather expected to turn particularly nasty after 11 a.m. It seems like Mother Nature is in no mood for calm, as the local forecast is predicting a strong wave of storms to arrive around 2 p.m. This kind of weather packs a punch, with an 80% chance of rain spilling over into the night and lingering through Thursday.

Residents need to prepare for the possibility of damaging winds, an abundance of frequent lightning, and some heavy downpours that could lead to flash flooding. As if that wasn’t enough, multiple rounds of storms are expected to sweep through, with Thursday afternoon looking like the real showstopper. Highs today are expected to hover around 86°F, providing little relief from the humidity, which adds to the discomfort during what many are calling a chaotic weather day.

Unfortunately, the storms have already started causing disruptions in and around Columbia. There are significant travel delays anticipated, especially during school dismissal times and the evening rush hour. Motorists are advised to take caution on slick roads and, if possible, to avoid any roads that are showing signs of flooding. It’s best to stay safe rather than sorry out there!

The effects of the storms have been pretty substantial, with over 2,600 customers reporting power outages by Sunday night, peaking at nearly 4,000 lost power after the recent storm. To add to the confusion, Columbia has halted all commercial and residential recycling pickups indefinitely due to storm damage at the city’s recycling plant. This shutdown means that public drop-off centers are also closed, throwing a wrench in recycling efforts. And with the Material Recovery Facility nearing the end of its life before the storm, it adds to the long list of challenges.

The Columbia Fire Department had a busy night responding to about 30 calls due to storm-related damage. While it’s a relief to hear that there have been no reported injuries from the storm damage, some homes are now dealing with the aftermath of fallen trees and debris scattered across the city. Particularly on Bear Creek Drive, two residents reported significant structural damage, including large trees crashing through their roofs. A resident in Callaway County did sustain minor injuries during the chaos, but thankfully their situation was not worse.

Emergency services were inundated with reports of downed power lines, falling trees, and localized flooding all across Boone County, as the storm wreaked havoc. Just before the storm hit at 5 p.m., the National Weather Service laid down tornado and severe thunderstorm warnings, allowing people to prepare as best as they could.

Looking ahead, the National Weather Service is planning to survey the storm damage throughout Boone County in the coming days. Reports indicate that the most significant destruction occurred primarily in the northeastern parts of Columbia, with first responders racing to assist where needed.

In light of these events, there’s some crucial advice floating around. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends keeping multiple ways to receive weather alerts, especially with some reported technical issues affecting outdoor sirens in nearby Fulton. The county remains under tornado warnings and a flood watch as storm conditions continue causing unease in the region. As storms are expected to linger into Thursday night before finally tapering off early Friday, residents are urged to stay vigilant.

So if you’re in Columbia, it’s a good time to keep your phones charged, secure any loose items you might have outside, and prepare for potential power disruptions. Remember, safety first!