More than 60 mph wind gust fells trees in Ashland, Hallsville areas
A line of early morning storms brought damaging winds with it to Boone County.
Strong winds were expected to remain throughout the day Monday that were behind the passing cold front.
"There was a line of showers and thunderstorms that came through Columbia around 3 to 4 a.m. We did get reports of some wind damage behind the line of thunderstorms with some trees down," said Marshall Pfahler, National Weather Service meteorologist.
The observation station at the Columbia Regional Airport measured a wind gust of 64 mph just before 4 a.m., he said.
"That magnitude is likely when the wind damage occurred. We have had gusty winds throughout the morning, but yet to see winds again quite that strong," Pfahler said.
A briefing from the National Weather Service noted wind and gusts were weakening Monday morning, though the wind advisory was to remain in place through 3 p.m. Maximum wind gusts in Columbia through that time were expected at 45 mph.
Boone County Joint Communications reported at least four downed trees in roadways between 5 and 6 a.m. Monday mostly in the Area of Ashland, which aligned with reports the National Weather Service received, Pfahler said.
There was one report of a downed tree from Joint Communications near Hallsville, along with a crash of a vehicle into a tree with downed power lines within Hallsville city limits on Missouri Highway 124.
The storm Monday happened to coincide with the state's preparation to observe Severe Weather Preparedness Week starting March 6.
“Flooding – particularly flash flooding – is the deadliest severe weather hazard in Missouri and can happen year-round,” said Jim Remillard, State Emergency Management Agency director. “Tornadoes and severe storms also pose deadly threats each year, which is why it’s so important to prepare. Its best to learn about the risks and have an emergency plan in place before severe weather strikes.”
The week includes various activities and messages related to weather safety, such as on tornados, lightning and wind safety, among others.
The statewide tornado drill is 10 a.m. March 7.
At that time, participants should practice taking cover in their designated shelter, SEMA said in a news release, encouraging schools, businesses and families to participate in the drill. It also serves as a chance for a science lesson on tornados for students.
Missourians are also encouraged to utilize Missouri’s “Ready in 3” program to create a plan, prepare a kit and listen for information regarding severe weather emergencies, SEMA said.
Charles Dunlap covers local government, community stories and other general subjects for the Tribune. You can reach him at cdunlap@columbiatribune.com or @CD_CDT on Twitter. Subscribe to support vital local journalism.
This article originally appeared on Columbia Daily Tribune: Trees in Boone County fall following severe early morning wind gust
