Severe Weather Hits Missouri: Hail, High Winds, and Flash Flooding Reported
On April 26, 2026, severe weather impacted multiple areas in Missouri, including hail, strong winds, and flash flooding. Hailstones as large as 2.75 inches in diameter were reported near El Dorado Springs, causing significant damage to vehicles, roofs, and buildings. Thunderstorm winds reached speeds of 52 knots (approximately 60 mph) in Lebanon, Diamond, and other locations. Flash flooding was also reported in Joplin, with heavy rainfall overwhelming drainage systems. The storms originated from Kansas and moved into Missouri, triggering tornado watches and warnings across the Ozarks region. Thousands of residents experienced power outages, particularly in Benton and Morgan counties, where structural damage to buildings was noted. [Source time: not specified]