Damaging Winds in Alabama, May 20, 2017

Name: Damaging Winds in Alabama, May 20, 2017
Start: 2017-05-20T15:52
End: 2017-05-20T17:15
Location: Alabama

May 20, 2017 · NWS HUN · 62 events in 6 counties and zones

Where it happened

Every event with a place to put it. Tap one for its entry below.

Tornadoes
Tropical storms and surge
Floods
Wind
Hail
Winter weather
Heat and drought
Cold
Fire, smoke and dust
Marine and coastal
Other

Open the live radar over this ground

The toll

Deaths: 0
Injuries: 0
Property damage: $23,000
Crop damage: None recorded
Events: 62

Deaths and injuries are direct and indirect together, as the offices filed them. Damage is property and crops in the dollars of the year, not adjusted for inflation, and only where an office estimated it.

What happened

The episode as NWS HUN wrote it up.

A line of strong to severe thunderstorms tracked from central through north central and northeast Alabama during the late afternoon and early evening hours. One segment of the thunderstorms produced widespread wind damage to Madison County, including the Huntsville area. At least 20,000 were without power as a result of the thunderstorms. A funnel cloud was observed in the Hampton Cove area.

What forecasters said that day

The local office's own words before the first event, as it sent them, from the Iowa Environmental Mesonet's archive of National Weather Service text.

NWS Huntsville, AL wrote its last area forecast discussion before the first event at May 20, 1:54 PM CST, 1 hour 58 minutes earlier.

Area forecast discussion, May 20, 1:54 PM CST, 1 hour 58 minutes before

Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Huntsville AL
254 PM CDT Sat May 20 2017

.NEAR TERM...(Tonight)
Issued at 254 PM CDT Sat May 20 2017

Local area radars show a fairly extensive area of showers and
thunderstorms covering much of Mississippi and western/southern
Alabama. This activity developed along an existing outflow boundary
from convection this morning, and was aided by a weak convergence
axis. Given ample instability, with temperatures in the mid to upper
80s and dewpoints in the mid to upper 60s, thunderstorms have been
able to maintain themselves, though organization has been hard to
come by due to relatively weak bulk shear.

The main upper level trough that is driving this activity will shift
from the Central Plains and into the Great Lakes region overnight.
The TN Valley will remain within the warm sector of this system,
with southerly flow continuing to stream an abundance of moisture
through the area. Latest hires guidance did not initialize well and
has therefore not handled the current activity very well. However,
given the unstable airmass in place and the potential for outflow
boundaries to continue convective initiation, thunderstorms will
continue a slow eastward progression through the remainder of the
afternoon and into the evening hours. The coverage may dwindle as
the convection pushes east of the I-65, but given the uncertainty,
have maintained a high pop in through 06Z.

As stated above, although instability is fairly high, relatively
weak bulk shear is led to a fairly disorganized area of
thunderstorms. CAPE values within the hail growth zone do support
the hail potential, however high wet bulb zero heights will likely
lead to only small hail actually reaching the ground. There may also
be enough downdraft CAPE for strong wind gusts to occur, but these
gusts are expected to remain below severe limits. One concern
remains the potential for localized flash flooding. We have seen
some storms tend to train over the same area, with radar estimated
rainfall rates nearing 2 inches. Latest trends do show the activity
weakening slightly and moving slightly quicker, but it does bear
watching through the remainder of the afternoon/evening.

The area will likely see a break in the more widespread precip, as
the initial activity pushes east of the area around midnight and
convection begins to develop to our west along the cold front.
However, given the very moist environment, scattered showers may
continue within this lull. The cold front will push east of the
Mississippi River just before daybreak on Sunday, with showers and
thunderstorms expected to develop just to our west. There is some
uncertainty regarding the speed of this "second" round of showers
and storms so the pops were adjusted to account for this
uncertainty.

.SHORT TERM...(Sunday through Monday)
Issued at 254 PM CDT Sat May 20 2017

Showers and thunderstorms will be ongoing to our west just before
sunrise and then push eastward through the morning hours. This
activity will be ahead of the main cold front which will move
through the TN Valley during the day. Surface based instability may
be a bit more limited with this activity, given the timing. However,
elevated instability will remain across the area, thus kept
thunderstorms in the forecast. Not anticipating much in the way of
strong to severe thunderstorms, given the main upper dynamics will
be well to the north of the forecast area and the lack of surface
based instability. However, PW values will remain high once again on
Sunday and heavy rain will be a possibility, which will keep the
threat for isolated flash flooding across the TN Valley. However,
this will be highly dependent on the amount of rain a given location
receives today and again, should be fairly localized due to the
extended period of dry conditions the area experienced prior.

The cold front will push east and through the TN Valley late Sunday
evening, bringing an end to the more widespread precip. There may be
some lingering showers across our far eastern areas early on Monday,
however the coverage should be fairly low. Northerly flow will usher
in drier air and dewpoints will fall into the low to mid 50s.
Temperatures will feel rather pleasant compared to the last couple
of days, with highs on Monday in the mid to upper 70s.

.LONG TERM...(Monday night through Friday)
Issued at 254 PM CDT Sat May 20 2017

An unsettled weather pattern will continue into the middle of the
week with cooler temps lingering through the extended forecast. A
series of disturbances will round the base of an amplifying trough
swinging SE across the Midwest and develop some showers Monday night
and thunderstorms on Tuesday. On Tuesday, in combination with a sfc
low, Gulf Coastal convection will develop and could affect convective
development in the TN Valley. There is not a lot of time for moisture
recovery in advance of the system with dewpoints reaching ~60
degrees, the coastal convection will cut us off from anything
further, and lower our instability. There is still model disagreement
on the evolution of the coastal convection and its timing, so will
have to see how additional runs handle it.

A cold front will move into the TN Valley late Tuesday/early
Wednesday bringing additional showers and thunderstorms across the
area. At this time there is decent 0-6 km shear but not a lot of
CAPE, with PWATs reaching ~1 inch. However based on the coastal
convection, these values could change. Wednesday will be the coolest
day of the week with highs around 70s and overnight lows around 50!
A few showers are possible on Thursday as the upper level trough
passes overhead, otherwise sfc high pressure will build in bringing
dry conditions and warmer temps by Friday! High temps on Friday will
be near 80 degrees with overnight lows around 60 degrees.

&&

.AVIATION...(For the 18Z TAFS through 18Z Sunday afternoon)
Issued at 1221 PM CDT Sat May 20 2017

Confidence is on the lower side regarding thunderstorm timing at the
KMSL and KHSV terminals. A line of thunderstorms just west of the
AL/MS state line will move towards the terminals through the
afternoon. Based on the latest trends, this slow moving line is
forecast to reach KMSL ~20Z, and KHSV ~22Z. Isolated convection will
be possible ahead of this line and therefore have maintained the
TEMPO for TSRA at each terminal since the thunderstorm potential will
remain through the afternoon. Additional showers were behind this
initial line and will reach the terminals after 00Z. However,
thunderstorm chances will diminish with the loss of daytime heating.
Showers will continue through much of the overnight period, though
breaks are still expected to occur. In addition to the showers, lower
clouds will move in as a cold front approaches the area. CIGS ~1500
feet will impact KMSL ~09Z and KHSV ~10Z. Lower cigs are possible,
but confidence is low. Conditions may improve slightly by 15Z, though
MVFR conditions are expected through the latter part of the period.

&&

.HUN WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES...
AL...NONE.
TN...NONE.
&&

NEAR TERM...73
SHORT TERM...73
LONG TERM...JMS
AVIATION...73

For more information please visit our website
at weather.gov/huntsville.

Hazardous weather outlook, May 20, 1:44 PM CST, 2 hours 8 minutes before

Hazardous Weather Outlook
National Weather Service Huntsville AL
244 PM CDT Sat May 20 2017

ALZ001>010-016-TNZ076-096-097-211100-
Lauderdale-Colbert-Franklin AL-Lawrence-Limestone-Madison-Morgan-
Marshall-Jackson-De Kalb-Cullman-Moore-Lincoln-Franklin TN-
244 PM CDT Sat May 20 2017

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for north Alabama and portions of
southern middle Tennessee.

.DAY ONE...Through Tonight...

Thunderstorms will continue to develop across the area through this
evening, with gusty winds up to 40 MPH and very heavy rainfall
possible. Isolated instances of flash flooding are possible during
this time.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Sunday through Friday...

Showers and thunderstorms are possible again Sunday with a strong
storm possibly producing gusty winds and small hail. Heavy rain and
isolated Flash Flooding will once again be the greatest threat.
Thunderstorms will taper off Sunday night from west to east as a
cold front moves through.

Scattered showers and thunderstorms are then possible Tuesday and
Tuesday night as another cold front approaches from the west. Brief
heavy rainfall and gusty winds are possible with a few of the
stronger storms.

.SPOTTER CALL TO ACTION STATEMENT...

Activation of storm spotters and emergency management personnel is
not anticipated at this time.

12

In the hours before

Special weather statement, May 20, 1:04 PM CST, 2 hours 48 minutes before

Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Huntsville AL
204 PM CDT SAT MAY 20 2017

ALZ001-201915-
Lauderdale AL-
204 PM CDT SAT MAY 20 2017

...SIGNIFICANT WEATHER ADVISORY FOR NORTH CENTRAL LAUDERDALE COUNTY
UNTIL 215 PM CDT...

At 204 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm 8
miles north of Underwood-Petersville, or 13 miles north of Florence,
moving north at 20 mph.

Pea size hail and winds in excess of 40 mph will be possible with
this storm.

Locations impacted include...
Cloverdale and Zip City.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Very heavy rainfall is also occurring with this storm and may lead to
localized flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded
roadways.

This storm may intensify, so be certain to monitor local radio
stations and available television stations for additional information
and possible warnings from the National Weather Service.

&&

LAT...LON 3500 8756 3490 8759 3492 8781 3501 8781
TIME...MOT...LOC 1904Z 186DEG 16KT 3499 8769

12

Special weather statement, May 20, 1:28 PM CST, 2 hours 24 minutes before

Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Huntsville AL
228 PM CDT SAT MAY 20 2017

ALZ001-202000-
Lauderdale AL-
228 PM CDT SAT MAY 20 2017

...SIGNIFICANT WEATHER ADVISORY FOR NORTHEASTERN LAUDERDALE COUNTY
UNTIL 300 PM CDT...

At 228 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm near
St. Florian, or 11 miles north of Florence, moving northeast at 20
mph.

Pea size hail and winds in excess of 40 mph will be possible with
this storm.

Locations impacted include...
Lexington, St. Florian, Underwood-Petersville, Green Hill and Zip
City.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Very heavy rainfall is also occurring with this storm and may lead to
localized flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded
roadways.

This storm may intensify, so be certain to monitor local radio
stations and available television stations for additional information
and possible warnings from the National Weather Service.

&&

LAT...LON 3501 8773 3500 8772 3500 8736 3484 8761
      3496 8777
TIME...MOT...LOC 1928Z 222DEG 18KT 3496 8763

12

Special weather statement, May 20, 2:24 PM CST, 1 hour 28 minutes before

Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Huntsville AL
324 PM CDT SAT MAY 20 2017

ALZ001-002-202100-
Lauderdale AL-Colbert AL-
324 PM CDT SAT MAY 20 2017

...SIGNIFICANT WEATHER ADVISORY FOR NORTHEASTERN LAUDERDALE AND EAST
CENTRAL COLBERT COUNTIES UNTIL 400 PM CDT...

At 324 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm near
Killen, or 10 miles east of Florence, moving northeast at 10 mph.

Winds in excess of 30 mph will be possible with this storm.

Locations impacted include...
Muscle Shoals, Rogersville, Killen, Green Hill, Center Star,
Kingtown, Whitehead, Ford City and Elgin.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Very heavy rainfall is also occurring with this storm and may lead to
localized flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded
roadways.

&&

LAT...LON 3485 8724 3478 8733 3480 8736 3480 8742
      3478 8743 3477 8742 3474 8743 3471 8742
      3470 8745 3468 8746 3478 8763 3500 8750
      3500 8749
TIME...MOT...LOC 2024Z 216DEG 9KT 3479 8750

12

Special weather statement, May 20, 2:48 PM CST, 1 hour 4 minutes before

Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Huntsville AL
348 PM CDT SAT MAY 20 2017

ALZ003-004-202115-
Lawrence AL-Franklin AL-
348 PM CDT SAT MAY 20 2017

...SIGNIFICANT WEATHER ADVISORY FOR SOUTHEASTERN FRANKLIN AND
SOUTHERN LAWRENCE COUNTIES UNTIL 415 PM CDT...

At 348 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm 9
miles north of Ashridge, or 10 miles southwest of Moulton, moving
northeast at 15 mph.

Pea size hail and winds in excess of 30 mph will be possible with
this storm.

Locations impacted include...
Moulton, Mt Hope, Wren, Landersville, Hatton, Bankhead National
Forest and Newburg.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Very heavy rainfall is also occurring with this storm and may lead to
localized flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded
roadways.

This storm may intensify, so be certain to monitor local radio
stations and available television stations for additional information
and possible warnings from the National Weather Service.

&&

LAT...LON 3430 8731 3431 8762 3457 8755 3457 8752
      3461 8751 3450 8715 3430 8730
TIME...MOT...LOC 2048Z 207DEG 15KT 3437 8743

12

Special weather statement, May 20, 3:20 PM CST, 32 minutes before

Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Huntsville AL
420 PM CDT SAT MAY 20 2017

ALZ001-004-005-202145-
Lawrence AL-Lauderdale AL-Limestone AL-
420 PM CDT SAT MAY 20 2017

...SIGNIFICANT WEATHER ADVISORY FOR EASTERN LAUDERDALE...NORTHWESTERN
LIMESTONE AND NORTHWESTERN LAWRENCE COUNTIES UNTIL 445 PM CDT...

At 420 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm over
Town Creek, or 13 miles north of Moulton, moving north at 30 mph.

Pea size hail and winds in excess of 40 mph will be possible with
this storm.

Locations impacted include...
Rogersville, Town Creek, Lexington, Courtland, North Courtland,
Anderson, Coxey, Red Bank, Elgin and Wheeler.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Very heavy rainfall is also occurring with this storm and may lead to
localized flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded
roadways.

&&

LAT...LON 3491 8708 3457 8729 3463 8748 3465 8748
      3465 8745 3470 8745 3471 8742 3474 8743
      3477 8742 3478 8743 3480 8743 3481 8744
      3500 8739
TIME...MOT...LOC 2120Z 199DEG 25KT 3467 8737

Stumpf

Special weather statement, May 20, 3:29 PM CST, 23 minutes before

Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Huntsville AL
429 PM CDT SAT MAY 20 2017

ALZ016-202200-
Cullman AL-
429 PM CDT SAT MAY 20 2017

...SIGNIFICANT WEATHER ADVISORY FOR CULLMAN COUNTY UNTIL 500 PM
CDT...

At 429 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a cluster of strong
thunderstorms near Smith Dam, or 12 miles north of Sumiton, moving
northeast at 60 mph.

Winds in excess of 40 mph and frequent cloud to ground lightning
will be possible with these storms.

Locations impacted include...
Cullman, Hanceville, Good Hope, Holly Pond, Dodge City, Sardis,
Baldwin, Vinemont, West Point and Garden City.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Very heavy rainfall is also occurring with this storm and may lead to
localized flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded
roadways.

&&

LAT...LON 3389 8701 3390 8709 3396 8711 3399 8715
      3399 8711 3424 8711 3425 8673 3420 8655
      3412 8660 3412 8663 3408 8669 3409 8669
      3406 8671 3403 8670 3395 8680 3396 8682
      3391 8692 3387 8693 3386 8699
TIME...MOT...LOC 2129Z 220DEG 50KT 3393 8701

15

The radar

The Birmingham radar (KBMX), 101 km away, was scanning. The volume nearest the first event began at 21:50 UTC.

Open the radar archive at this moment

Event by event

62 thunderstorm wind. Local standard time, as filed.

Thunderstorm Wind, Cullman

When: May 20, 3:52 PM CST
Where: Cullman County, Loretto
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.070, -86.920

Multiple trees down in Loretto.

Thunderstorm Wind, Morgan

When: May 20, 3:57 PM CST
Where: Morgan County, 0.57 mi E of Massey
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $500
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.370, -87.010

A tree and power lines were knocked down onto the road at 2531 CR 55.

Thunderstorm Wind, Cullman

When: May 20, 4:06 PM CST
Where: Cullman County, 1.33 mi WSW of County Line
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.290, -86.720

Severe roof damage reported at a gas station at the intersection of CR 1545 and CR 1527.

Thunderstorm Wind, Morgan

When: May 20, 4:06 PM CST
Where: Morgan County, 0.57 mi W of Eva
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.330, -86.760

A tree was knocked down onto the road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Morgan

When: May 20, 4:08 PM CST
Where: Morgan County, 1.38 mi N of Eva
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.350, -86.750

A tree was knocked down onto Copper Springs Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Morgan

When: May 20, 4:08 PM CST
Where: Morgan County, 1.14 mi W of Mt Tabor
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.430, -86.890

A large part of a tree was knocked down onto Parker Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Morgan

When: May 20, 4:09 PM CST
Where: Morgan County, 2.38 mi WSW of Hartselle
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.420, -86.970

A tree was knocked down onto the road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Morgan

When: May 20, 4:10 PM CST
Where: Morgan County, 1.79 mi NW of Oden Ridge
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.390, -86.790

A tree was knocked down onto the road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Morgan

When: May 20, 4:12 PM CST
Where: Morgan County, 2.67 mi WSW of Furney Xrds
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.430, -86.820

A tree was knocked down onto the road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Morgan

When: May 20, 4:12 PM CST
Where: Morgan County, 2.99 mi NNW of Gum Pond
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.370, -86.690

A tree was knocked down onto the road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Morgan

When: May 20, 4:13 PM CST
Where: Morgan County, 0.9 mi SE of Somerville
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.460, -86.790

A tree was knocked down by thunderstorm winds onto Lyle Circle.

Thunderstorm Wind, Morgan

When: May 20, 4:14 PM CST
Where: Morgan County, 0.9 mi SW of Center Grove
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.370, -86.640

A tree was knocked down onto the road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Morgan

When: May 20, 4:14 PM CST
Where: Morgan County, 0.69 mi N of Ryan Xrds
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $500
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.340, -86.600

A tree and power line was knocked down.

Thunderstorm Wind, Morgan

When: May 20, 4:15 PM CST
Where: Morgan County, 1.33 mi ENE of Somerville
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.480, -86.780

A tree was knocked down onto the roadway.

Thunderstorm Wind, Morgan

When: May 20, 4:16 PM CST
Where: Morgan County, Somerville
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.470, -86.800

A tree was knocked down onto Main Street.

Thunderstorm Wind, Morgan

When: May 20, 4:17 PM CST
Where: Morgan County, 0.9 mi NE of Center Grove
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.390, -86.620

A tree was knocked down onto the road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Morgan

When: May 20, 4:18 PM CST
Where: Morgan County, 0.57 mi W of Eva
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $2,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.330, -86.760

A tree was knocked down onto a home.

Thunderstorm Wind, Morgan

When: May 20, 4:19 PM CST
Where: Morgan County, 0.69 mi N of Woodland Mills
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.480, -86.680

A tree was knocked down onto Luker Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Morgan

When: May 20, 4:22 PM CST
Where: Morgan County, 2.38 mi ESE of West Pt
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.440, -86.610

A tree was knocked down onto a trailer.

Thunderstorm Wind, Morgan

When: May 20, 4:26 PM CST
Where: Morgan County, 0.9 mi NE of Huntsville Laceys Sp
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.540, -86.590

A tree was knocked down onto Bartee Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Marshall

When: May 20, 4:26 PM CST
Where: Marshall County, 1.33 mi ENE of Mt Olive
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.460, -86.550

A tree was knocked down across the roadway.

Thunderstorm Wind, Limestone

When: May 20, 4:27 PM CST
Where: Limestone County, 2.36 mi SSE of Sardis Spgs
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.800, -86.860

Trees were knocked down at Meadows Road and Nick Davis Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Limestone

When: May 20, 4:29 PM CST
Where: Limestone County, 1.84 mi WSW of Capshaw
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.760, -86.830

A tree was knocked onto a home on Cricket Lane.

Thunderstorm Wind, Limestone

When: May 20, 4:29 PM CST
Where: Limestone County, 0.69 mi S of Copeland Co
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.840, -86.830

Trees were knocked down at East Limestone Road and Copeland Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Marshall

When: May 20, 4:29 PM CST
Where: Marshall County, 0.69 mi N of Allen Xrds
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $500
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.440, -86.550

A tree was knocked down by thunderstorm winds onto a power line.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:30 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 2.93 mi ENE of (Hsv)huntsville Jone
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 34.640, -86.720

Roof damage was reported at this location due to thunderstorm winds.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:30 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 1.79 mi SW of Huntsville Mills Arp
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: NWS Employee
Coordinates: 34.730, -86.570

Several trees were reported knocked down in the Blossomwood neighborhood in Huntsville. Power was out for over one day.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:33 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 1.84 mi ENE of Madison
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 34.710, -86.740

A tree was down along Sunset Blvd.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:37 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 0.57 mi W of Huntsville Park
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 34.700, -86.630

A tree was knocked down on a house.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:40 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 1.84 mi ENE of Huntsville Park
Measured: 61 kt (70 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.710, -86.590

A broken power pole and transformer was down near Leeman Ferry Road and the Memorial Parkway.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:40 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 0.89 mi NE of Huntsville Park
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.710, -86.610

A tree was knocked down onto a house.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:40 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 0.89 mi SE of Huntsville
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.720, -86.610

A tree was knocked down on a house.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:40 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 2.19 mi SW of Huntsville Mills Arp
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.730, -86.580

A tree was knocked down on a house.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:40 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 1.7 mi E of Huntsville
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.730, -86.590

A tree was knocked down on a house.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:41 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 0.57 mi E of Huntsville Park
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.700, -86.610

A tree was knocked down on a house.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:41 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 1.84 mi ENE of Huntsville Park
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 34.710, -86.590

Signs were blown down around the Memorial Parkway at Drake Avenue.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:42 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 2.07 mi S of Huntsville Mills Arp
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 34.720, -86.550

A tree was knocked down on Governors Drive at Park Hill.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:43 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 0.89 mi NE of Owens Xrds
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 34.590, -86.460

A cable line was blown down into the roadway.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:43 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 1.33 mi WNW of Owens Xrds
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 34.590, -86.490

A tree was knocked down on South Green Mountain Road south of Old Big Cove.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:43 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 2.15 mi NNE of Owens Xrds
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 34.610, -86.460

A tree was knocked down on Christian Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:44 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 1.33 mi WNW of Nunn Store
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 34.660, -86.500

A tree was knocked down at Cecil Ashburn Road at Old Big Cove Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:44 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 1.49 mi SSW of Huntsville Mills Arp
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.730, -86.560

A tree was knocked down onto a house.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:44 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 1.14 mi W of Huntsville Mills Arp
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.750, -86.570

A tree was knocked down onto a house.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:44 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 0.89 mi SE of Normal
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.770, -86.570

A tree was knocked down onto a house.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:45 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 0.57 mi W of Brownsboro
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 34.750, -86.460

Power lines were knocked down with sparking reported.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:45 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 0.57 mi W of Huntsville Mills Arp
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.750, -86.560

A tree was knocked down onto a house.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:45 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 0.89 mi NE of Oakwood College
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 34.760, -86.620

Power lines and multiple tree were knocked down near Incline Street and Purdy Drive.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:45 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 1.7 mi W of Ryland
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 34.770, -86.510

Power lines were knocked down sparking a tree fire.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:45 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 1.7 mi E of Chase
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 34.780, -86.520

A tree was knocked down onto a home.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:46 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 1.71 mi E of Berkley
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 34.630, -86.400

A tree was knocked down across Low Gap Road near Cherry Tree Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:46 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 1.49 mi NNW of Nunn Store
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 34.670, -86.490

Six inch diameter tree limbs were knocked down.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:47 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 0.57 mi W of Brownsboro
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 34.750, -86.460

Trees were on fire due to power lines being knocked down.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:47 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 1.33 mi WSW of Bell Factory
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 34.810, -86.500

A tree was knocked down onto power lines.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:47 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 0.57 mi E of Deposit
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 34.850, -86.460

Thunderstorm winds knocked a tree onto a home.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:48 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 1.49 mi SSW of Bell Factory
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: County Official
Coordinates: 34.800, -86.490

Thunderstorm wind produced damage at Riverton Intermediate School. A roof was blown off of a softball dugout along with around 20 masonry rocks. Metal fascia of around 200 feet was torn off at two locations at the school.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:49 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 1.33 mi WNW of Ryland
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: NWS Employee
Coordinates: 34.780, -86.500

A very large 16-18 inch diameter tree was knocked down at the intersection of Jordan Road and Naugher Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:49 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 0.89 mi SW of Bell Factory
Measured: 56 kt (64 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: NWS Employee
Coordinates: 34.810, -86.490

Wind gusts estimated between 60 to 65 MPH from thunderstorms.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:50 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 1.49 mi SSW of Bell Factory
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 34.800, -86.490

Tree limbs were knocked down along Homer Nance Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:50 PM CST
Where: Madison County, Bell Factory
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 34.820, -86.480

A tree was knocked down onto power lines.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: May 20, 4:53 PM CST
Where: Madison County, 1.33 mi ESE of Huntsville Mills Arp
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 34.740, -86.530

Mesonet station AR191 registered a gust of 60 mph, 5 miles east-northeast of Huntsville.

Thunderstorm Wind, Jackson

When: May 20, 5:03 PM CST
Where: Jackson County, 2.68 mi SW of Pleasant Grove
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.700, -86.250

Trees were knocked down along CR 8.

Thunderstorm Wind, Jackson

When: May 20, 5:15 PM CST
Where: Jackson County, 0.89 mi SW of Swaim
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.860, -86.210

Trees were knocked down along State Road 65 between Princeton and Estillfork.

What these are

Thunderstorm Wind: Winds from a thunderstorm of 50 knots (58 mph) or more, or lower winds that caused damage or casualties. Measured gusts are marked MG, estimated EG.

After NWS Directive 10-1605, the rules offices file Storm Data by.

The same day elsewhere

Every storm in Alabama in 2017 Every state in 2017 This day in weather history Warnings in Alabama, May 2017

Sources

NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information, Storm Events Database, compiled from the National Weather Service’s monthly Storm Data. Complete through 2026-06; NCEI adds each month about 75 days after it ends and revises past years a few times a year. Rebuilt 2026-09-24. Each event’s entry at NCEI: 688125, 694058, 688126, 694059, 694060, 694061, 694062, 694063, 694064, 694065, 694066, 694067, 694068, 694069, 694070, 694071, 694072, 694073, 694074, 694075, 694076, 688127, 688128, 688129, 694077, 688130, 688131, 688132, 688133, 688134, 688135, 688136, 688137, 688138, 688139, 688140, 688141, 688142, 688143, 688144, and more.