Tornadoes and Hail in Kentucky, April 5, 2017

Name: Tornadoes and Hail in Kentucky, April 5, 2017
Start: 2017-04-05T13:38
End: 2017-04-05T20:07
Location: Kentucky

April 5, 2017 · NWS LMK · 92 events in 29 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: $2.2 million
Crop damage: None recorded
Events: 92

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 LMK wrote it up.

A strong area of low pressure tracked across the Ohio Valley on April 5. With an unseasonably warm and humid air mass in place, several lines of strong to severe thunderstorms developed across the area. This resulted in large hail and damaging winds across central Kentucky. There were also 4 tornadoes reported in central Kentucky.

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 Louisville, KY wrote its last area forecast discussion before the first event at Apr 5, 12:02 PM CST, 1 hour 36 minutes earlier.

Area forecast discussion, Apr 5, 12:02 PM CST, 1 hour 36 minutes before

Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Louisville KY
202 PM EDT Wed Apr 5 2017

.Short Term...(This evening through Thursday night)
Issued at 200 PM EDT Wed Apr 5 2017

...Severe Storms Likely this Afternoon/Evening...
...Windy Conditions Late Tonight and Thursday...

Broad area of low pressure, 999 mb, extends from central MO to
southern IL, with a warm front extending across southern IN this
hour. Sunshine warming up the warm sector quickly, but dewpoints
have stayed down according to area observations. Narrow area of
higher dewpoints over western TN this hour, but very narrow. Still
focused on potential for very large hail and damaging wind gusts as
cold pools come out of supercells. Looking at a better tornado
threat in a couple of areas, one over southern Indiana, along the
front and another across Lake Cumberland as LCL's start to fall.

Even outside of these storms, expect gusty winds because of the
pressure gradient associated with that low pressure. The gradient
will stick around overnight and Thursday. In fact, looking at very
windy conditions for the day Thursday, as much colder air pours in.
Likely we will issue a Wind Advisory later tonight for that Thursday
period, with gusts to around 40 mph.

In addition to the wind, expect showery conditions as moisture wraps
around the upper low travelling by to our north. We may see a brief
transition to rain/snow mix or just snow by daybreak Friday.

&&

.Long Term...(Friday through Wednesday)
Issued at 230 PM EDT Wed Apr 5 2017

...Freezing Temperatures May Return Early Saturday...

Friday morning will be near freezing, but with windy conditions not
expecting frost development. Saturday morning, high pressure will
move across the TN Valley, and that looks to be a better chance for
a freeze, especially in our normally colder locations.

High pressure then shifts east of the region and we should have
another warmup in store for the end of the weekend and the beginning
of the next work week. Our next good rain chance will come in Monday
night, as a cold front approaches.

&&

.Aviation...(18Z TAF Issuance)
Issued at 110 PM EDT Wed Apr 5 2017

Well...strong low pressure system over MO will move into the CWA by
21z bringing a strong risk of severe storms across KY.

Ahead of this system, winds will slowly veer to the SE and S and
increase to 10 to 18 mph later this afternoon and this evening.  A
potent cold front will move through tonight with winds shifting to
more westerly.

Ahead of the cold front in the warm sector expect 30% coverage of
shra/tsra from 20z through 03z. We are looking for 20-30% coverage
of supercells to develop west of I 65 between 18-20z and move
rapidly to the NE at 50 mph. These will produce very large hail,
damaging winds and isolated tornadoes.  All aircraft flying into all
3 airports should practice tsra avoidance procedures for all
supercell thunderstorms. Very large hail from supercells.

Storms will be widely scattered so will continue to carry VCTS for
now. But will be monitoring closely should one affect any of the
sites.  My hunch is LEX will have thunderstorms around 00z
timeframe.

The storms will move out this evening. Light showers will develop
behind the cold front and move in late tonight and continue into
Thursday.

The story on Thursday will be MVFR CIGS, and very gusty winds from
the west of 20 gusting to 35 mph staring at 16z.  Cold raw dreary
day on the flight line for sure.

&&

.LMK WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES...
IN...None.
KY...None.
&&

Short Term...RJS
Long Term...RJS
Aviation...JDG

Hazardous weather outlook, Apr 5, 12:57 PM CST, 41 minutes before

Hazardous Weather Outlook
National Weather Service Louisville KY
257 PM EDT Wed Apr 5 2017

INZ076>079-083-084-089>092-KYZ023>043-045>049-053>057-061>067-
070>078-081-082-061900-
Orange-Washington-Scott-Jefferson-Dubois-Crawford-Perry-Harrison-
Floyd-Clark-Hancock-Breckinridge-Meade-Ohio-Grayson-Hardin-Bullitt-
Oldham-Trimble-Henry-Shelby-Franklin-Spencer-Anderson-Woodford-
Fayette-Bourbon-Nicholas-Nelson-Mercer-Jessamine-Larue-Marion-Boyle-
Garrard-Madison-Butler-Edmonson-Hart-Green-Taylor-Casey-Lincoln-
Logan-Warren-Simpson-Allen-Barren-Monroe-Metcalfe-Adair-Russell-
Cumberland-Clinton-
Including the cities of Paoli, Salem, Scottsburg, Madison, Jasper,
English, Tell City, Corydon, New Albany, Jeffersonville, Lewisport,
Hawesville, Hardinsburg, Brandenburg, Hartford, Leitchfield,
Elizabethtown, Shepherdsville, Louisville, La Grange, Bedford,
Milton, New Castle, Shelbyville, Frankfort, Georgetown, Cynthiana,
Taylorsville, Lawrenceburg, Versailles, Lexington, Paris, Carlisle,
Bardstown, Springfield, Harrodsburg, Nicholasville, Winchester,
Hodgenville, Lebanon, Danville, Lancaster, Richmond, Morgantown,
Brownsville, Horse Cave, Greensburg, Campbellsville, Liberty,
Stanford, Russellville, Bowling Green, Franklin, Providence,
Scottsville, Glasgow, Tompkinsville, Edmonton, Columbia, Jamestown,
Burkesville, and Albany
257 PM EDT Wed Apr 5 2017 /157 PM CDT Wed Apr 5 2017/

...TORNADO WATCH 127 IN EFFECT UNTIL 10 PM EDT /9 PM CDT/ THIS
EVENING...

This hazardous weather outlook is for portions of south central
Indiana and Central Kentucky.

.DAY ONE...This Afternoon and Tonight.

Scattered to numerous storms are likely this afternoon and evening as
a cold front approaches the region. Some of these storms will become
quite vigorous with severe weather likely to 10 PM EDT. Damaging
winds, large to very large hail, and a few tornadoes are all
possible.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Thursday through Tuesday.

Cold conditions will return to the area behind the strong cold
front. As a result, light snow may mix in with rain showers Friday
morning. Temperatures will fall close to the freezing mark Saturday
morning with frost or a freeze possible.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

Spotters are requested to report hail of any size, strong winds or
wind damage, and any rotation in storms today.

&&

More information, along with other weather, hydrological and
climate information can be found, at weather.gov/louisville.

RJS

In the hours before

Special weather statement, Apr 5, 1:16 PM CST, 22 minutes before

Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Louisville KY
216 PM CDT WED APR 5 2017

INZ089-KYZ023-024-026-051945-
Perry-Hancock-Ohio-Breckinridge-
216 PM CDT WED APR 5 2017

...A STRONG THUNDERSTORM WILL AFFECT SOUTHWESTERN PERRY...HANCOCK...
WEST CENTRAL BRECKINRIDGE AND NORTHERN OHIO COUNTIES...

At 216 PM CDT, a strong thunderstorm was located over Whitesville,
moving northeast at 50 mph.

Winds in excess of 40 mph and half inch hail are possible with this
storm.

Locations impacted include...
Tell City, Hawesville, Cannelton, Cloverport, Skillman, Goering,
Pellville, Dodd, Tobinsport and Holt.

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.

A tornado watch remains in effect until 900 PM CDT for south central
Indiana...and central Kentucky.

LAT...LON 3801 8674 3785 8642 3764 8681 3767 8684
      3767 8682 3771 8687 3774 8682 3779 8682
      3784 8685 3784 8688 3783 8690 3784 8691
TIME...MOT...LOC 1916Z 225DEG 47KT 3772 8689

RJS

Special weather statement, Apr 5, 1:22 PM CST, 16 minutes before

Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Louisville KY
222 PM CDT WED APR 5 2017

KYZ027-061-051945-
Grayson-Butler-
222 PM CDT WED APR 5 2017

...A STRONG THUNDERSTORM WILL AFFECT NORTHEASTERN BUTLER AND CENTRAL
GRAYSON COUNTIES...

At 221 PM CDT, a strong thunderstorm was located 7 miles northeast of
Morgantown, moving northeast at 50 mph.

Winds in excess of 40 mph and nickel size hail are possible with this
storm.

Locations impacted include...
Leitchfield, Casey, Lee, Clarkson, Caneyville, Monford, Steff,
Aberdeen, Eden and Brooklyn.

LAT...LON 3739 8661 3743 8662 3758 8642 3757 8641
      3757 8639 3746 8616 3732 8645 3732 8647
      3731 8647 3723 8664 3729 8677
TIME...MOT...LOC 1921Z 229DEG 59KT 3733 8662

DM

Special weather statement, Apr 5, 1:33 PM CST, 5 minutes before

Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Louisville KY
233 PM CDT WED APR 5 2017

KYZ026-061-051945-
Butler-Ohio-
233 PM CDT WED APR 5 2017

...A STRONG THUNDERSTORM WILL AFFECT BUTLER AND SOUTHEASTERN OHIO
COUNTIES...

At 232 PM CDT, a strong thunderstorm was located 8 miles southwest of
Morgantown, moving northeast at 50 mph.

Wind gusts up to 50 mph and nickel size hail are possible with this
storm.

Locations impacted include...
Morgantown, Casey, Woodbury, Monford, Mining City, Dimple, Aberdeen,
Leetown, Eden and Flint Springs.

LAT...LON 3744 8679 3733 8649 3718 8661 3718 8662
      3717 8662 3704 8673 3709 8689
TIME...MOT...LOC 1932Z 211DEG 50KT 3714 8680

DM

The radar

The Ft Campbell radar (KHPX), 69 km away, was scanning. The volume nearest the first event began at 19:36 UTC.

Open the radar archive at this moment

Event by event

44 hail, 44 thunderstorm wind, 4 tornado. Local standard time, as filed.

Hail, Butler

When: April 5, 1:38 PM CST
Where: Butler County, 1.3 mi WNW of Davenport
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.190, -86.750

Hail, Hancock

When: April 5, 1:45 PM CST
Where: Hancock County, 2.81 mi WSW of Utility
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: COOP Observer
Coordinates: 37.860, -86.880

Hail, Breckinridge

When: April 5, 1:55 PM CST
Where: Breckinridge County, 0.55 mi W of Hardinsburg Arpt
Measured: 0.88 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.780, -86.460

Hail, Breckinridge

When: April 5, 1:58 PM CST
Where: Breckinridge County, 0.55 mi E of Harned
Measured: 1.5 in hail
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 37.750, -86.410

Hail, Breckinridge

When: April 5, 2:04 PM CST
Where: Breckinridge County, 0.55 mi E of Dugan
Measured: 0.88 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.880, -86.290

Hail, Butler

When: April 5, 2:14 PM CST
Where: Butler County, 0.88 mi NE of Leetown
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.140, -86.740

Hail, Butler

When: April 5, 2:18 PM CST
Where: Butler County, 3.63 mi NNW of Logansport
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Broadcast Media
Coordinates: 37.330, -86.800

Hail, Ohio

When: April 5, 2:28 PM CST
Where: Ohio County, 0.69 mi N of Horse Branch
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.460, -86.680

Hail, Breckinridge

When: April 5, 2:56 PM CST
Where: Breckinridge County, 1.29 mi WNW of Hardinsburg
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: Broadcast Media
Coordinates: 37.790, -86.490

Hail, Warren

When: April 5, 3:02 PM CST
Where: Warren County, 0.69 mi S of (Bwg)bowling Green A
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: Other Federal Agency
Coordinates: 36.960, -86.420

Dime size hail was reported at Warren County Airport by the Civil Air Patrol.

Hail, Meade

When: April 5, 4:04 PM EST
Where: Meade County, 5.14 mi NE of Wolf Creek
Measured: 0.88 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 38.150, -86.310

Thunderstorm Wind, Warren

When: April 5, 3:10 PM CST
Where: Warren County, 0.88 mi NE of Bristow
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 37.030, -86.360

A trained spotter reported shingles blown off a home near Warren East High School.

Thunderstorm Wind, Warren

When: April 5, 3:10 PM CST
Where: Warren County, 0.69 mi S of Bristow
Measured: 54 kt (62 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 37.010, -86.370

Hail, Edmonson

When: April 5, 3:17 PM CST
Where: Edmonson County, 0.69 mi N of Segal
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.210, -86.380

Thunderstorm Wind, Edmonson

When: April 5, 3:17 PM CST
Where: Edmonson County, 0.88 mi SW of Kyrock
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $15,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.260, -86.260

The public reported power lines down.

Thunderstorm Wind, Warren

When: April 5, 3:18 PM CST
Where: Warren County, 1.49 mi NNE of Rich Pond
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 36.920, -86.490

The public reported downed trees due to severe thunderstorm winds.

Thunderstorm Wind, Breckinridge

When: April 5, 3:21 PM CST
Where: Breckinridge County, 1.38 mi N of Irvington
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $20,000
Reported by: Broadcast Media
Coordinates: 37.900, -86.280

Local broadcast media reported power lines down across KY 79.

Hail, Warren

When: April 5, 3:22 PM CST
Where: Warren County, 1.38 mi N of Memphis Jct
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 36.970, -86.480

Hail, Warren

When: April 5, 3:23 PM CST
Where: Warren County, 1.3 mi WNW of Bowling Green
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: Broadcast Media
Coordinates: 36.990, -86.450

Hail, Warren

When: April 5, 3:23 PM CST
Where: Warren County, 2.31 mi ENE of Blue Level
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 36.990, -86.490

Hail, Hardin

When: April 5, 4:25 PM EST
Where: Hardin County, 0.88 mi NW of Martin Box
Measured: 0.88 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.680, -85.910

Hail, Hardin

When: April 5, 4:25 PM EST
Where: Hardin County, Elizabeth Town
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Amateur Radio
Coordinates: 37.700, -85.870

Thunderstorm Wind, Warren

When: April 5, 3:25 PM CST
Where: Warren County, 1.49 mi NNW of Mt Victor
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $25,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.000, -86.390

A homeowner reported significant roof damage due to severe thunderstorm winds.

Thunderstorm Wind, Hardin

When: April 5, 4:27 PM EST
Where: Hardin County, 1.49 mi NNW of Elizabeth Town
Measured: 65 kt (75 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $25,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 37.720, -85.880

A tree was uprooted due to severe thunderstorm winds and fell onto a mobile home.

Thunderstorm Wind, Warren

When: April 5, 3:29 PM CST
Where: Warren County, 2.35 mi NNW of Oakland
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.060, -86.270

A barn was damaged due to severe thunderstorm winds.

Thunderstorm Wind, Hardin

When: April 5, 4:30 PM EST
Where: Hardin County, 1.29 mi ENE of Elizabeth Town
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $25,000
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 37.710, -85.850

A trained spotter reported a mobile home was blown over due to severe thunderstorm winds.

Thunderstorm Wind, Hardin

When: April 5, 4:30 PM EST
Where: Hardin County, 1.76 mi NW of Elizabeth Town
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $15,000
Reported by: Amateur Radio
Coordinates: 37.720, -85.890

An amateur radio operator reported that a tree was blown onto a mobile home in the Woodland mobile home park.

Thunderstorm Wind, Warren

When: April 5, 3:30 PM CST
Where: Warren County, 2.82 mi NNW of Smiths Grove
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $30,000
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 37.090, -86.230

A trained spotter reported that a home sustained roof damage and a camper was overturned along Highway 31W near KY 101 due to severe thunderstorm winds.

Thunderstorm Wind, Shelby

When: April 5, 4:30 PM EST
Where: Shelby County, 2.34 mi SSE of L S Park
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 38.170, -85.380

Hail, Warren

When: April 5, 3:34 PM CST
Where: Warren County, 0.88 mi SE of Anna
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 37.110, -86.420

Thunderstorm Wind, Warren

When: April 5, 3:34 PM CST
Where: Warren County, 0.88 mi SE of Anna
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $20,000
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 37.110, -86.420

Trained spotters reported power lines down due to severe thunderstorm winds.

Hail, Nelson

When: April 5, 4:45 PM EST
Where: Nelson County, Boston
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 37.780, -85.670

Hail, Warren

When: April 5, 3:46 PM CST
Where: Warren County, Alvaton
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 36.870, -86.350

Hail, Nelson

When: April 5, 4:47 PM EST
Where: Nelson County, Boston
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 37.780, -85.670

Thunderstorm Wind, Henry

When: April 5, 4:53 PM EST
Where: Henry County, 1.77 mi ENE of Eminence
Measured: 61 kt (70 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200,000
Reported by: Broadcast Media
Coordinates: 38.380, -85.150

Local broadcast media reported that severe thunderstorm winds blew off a roof from a modular home. Four to five barns were destroyed. A mobile home was destroyed near Watkins Lane. Numerous trees were downed, and several boards were peeled off a fence.

Tornado, Henry

When: April 5, 4:54 PM EST to 4:56 PM EST
Where: Henry County, 1.62 mi NNE of Bellview to 2.21 mi NW of North Pleasureville
Rating: EF1
Path length: 1.72 mi
Path width: 100 yd
Property damage: $100,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 38.373, -85.144

The National Weather Service surveyed a small tornado path in Henry County. There were also areas of wind and hail damage along US 421. The first evidence of tornado damage was just south of US 421 where the tornado passed between two farms. Barns on either side of the path were damaged with the debris thrown clockwise which showed an anticyclonic rotation. Also, a nearby house’s siding was severely damaged by hail, with witnesses saying the hail was several inches deep. The tornado crossed US 421 and continued northeast. The last evidence of a tornado was at a house on Point Pleasant Road. The tornado blew in a garage door and caused siding damage again due to hail.

Hail, Henry

When: April 5, 4:55 PM EST
Where: Henry County, 0.54 mi E of Bethlehem
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 38.400, -85.060

Thunderstorm Wind, Henry

When: April 5, 4:55 PM EST
Where: Henry County, 2.34 mi NNW of North Pleasureville
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Amateur Radio
Coordinates: 38.400, -85.120

Local amateur radio operators reported several barns were blown down along Pleasant Road.

Hail, Hart

When: April 5, 3:57 PM CST
Where: Hart County, 0.88 mi SE of Woodsonville
Measured: 0.88 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.260, -85.890

Thunderstorm Wind, Barren

When: April 5, 3:57 PM CST
Where: Barren County, 2.03 mi SSW of Goodnight
Measured: 78 kt (90 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $30,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 37.053, -85.914

A large barn was flattened by straight-line winds on Old Munfordville Rd north of Glasgow.

Hail, Nelson

When: April 5, 5:00 PM EST
Where: Nelson County, 0.88 mi SE of Bardstown
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.810, -85.460

Hail, Nelson

When: April 5, 5:00 PM EST
Where: Nelson County, Fairfield
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.930, -85.380

Hail, Henry

When: April 5, 5:03 PM EST
Where: Henry County, 1.08 mi W of Slabtown
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 38.430, -85.020

Thunderstorm Wind, Barren

When: April 5, 4:03 PM CST to 4:06 PM CST
Where: Barren County, 2.14 mi ESE of Griderville to 0.4 mi SW of Park
Measured: 78 kt (90 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 37.104, -85.847

Over 160 structures were damaged in a 2-3 mile wide swath extending 15 miles from near Hiseville in Barren County northeast across Metcalfe into Green County. Three EF-1 tornadoes, with maximum winds of 100-110 mph were embedded within this area. Outside of the tornadoes, maximum winds were estimated at 70-90 mph. In Barren County, the most significant damage was in and near Hiseville, where a commercial radio tower collapsed in the high winds, and multiple barns and other outbuildings were flattened.

Hail, Henry

When: April 5, 5:06 PM EST
Where: Henry County, Carroll
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 38.430, -84.980

Hail, Shelby

When: April 5, 5:06 PM EST
Where: Shelby County, Cropper
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Broadcast Media
Coordinates: 38.320, -85.120

Thunderstorm Wind, Metcalfe

When: April 5, 4:06 PM CST to 4:14 PM CST
Where: Metcalfe County, 2.46 mi W of Savoyard to 2.15 mi NNE of Center
Measured: 78 kt (90 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $400,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 37.125, -85.774

Over 160 structures were damaged in a 2-3 mile wide swath extending 15 miles from near Hiseville in Barren County northeast across Metcalfe into Green County. Three EF-1 tornadoes, with maximum winds of 100-110 mph were embedded within this area. Outside of the tornadoes, maximum winds were estimated at 70-90 mph. In Metcalfe County, two of the three tornadoes touched down near the community of Center, which had been hit by a brief EF-1 tornado just eight days earlier. In addition to the dozens of structures damaged by the non-tornadic winds - including the complete destruction of several outbuildings - several headstones were blown over in a small cemetery a half mile north of Center.

Tornado, Metcalfe

When: April 5, 4:11 PM CST to 4:13 PM CST
Where: Metcalfe County, 2.5 mi NW of Center to 2.22 mi NNW of Center
Rating: EF1
Path length: 0.69 mi
Path width: 50 yd
Property damage: $150,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 37.154, -85.714

This small tornado touched down near the intersection of Iron Mountain and Kidd Roads where it heavily damaged a barn, then moved east-northeast over open farmland before hitting a farm on the west side of Center Three Springs Road. It tore the back end off a large barn there and collapsed a 60 foot silo, then crossed the road and snapped off several trees before lifting. The doors on a nearby barn were blown in.

Tornado, Metcalfe

When: April 5, 4:12 PM CST to 4:13 PM CST
Where: Metcalfe County, 1.68 mi NNW of Center to 1.51 mi NNW of Center
Rating: EF1
Path length: 0.39 mi
Path width: 50 yd
Property damage: $75,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 37.151, -85.696

This small, short-lived tornado touched down shortly after the previous tornado to its northwest lifted. It began in a field west of Center Peggyville Road, taking out several trees in a tree line before moving east where it destroyed a large, well-built barn, lofting debris into the air and sending it as far as 1/4 mile to the east. After crossing the road, it snapped several trees on the edge of a large grove and narrowly missed another home.

Hail, Nelson

When: April 5, 5:13 PM EST
Where: Nelson County, 0.69 mi N of Bloomfield
Measured: 0.88 in hail
Reported by: Broadcast Media
Coordinates: 37.910, -85.320

Thunderstorm Wind, Green

When: April 5, 4:13 PM CST to 4:18 PM CST
Where: Green County, 1.34 mi WSW of Crailhope to 1.33 mi SSE of Grab
Measured: 78 kt (90 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $300,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 37.160, -85.671

Hail, Nelson

When: April 5, 5:15 PM EST
Where: Nelson County, Fairfield
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.930, -85.380

Tornado, Green

When: April 5, 4:16 PM CST to 4:17 PM CST
Where: Green County, 1.27 mi NW of Crailhope to 1.36 mi NNW of Crailhope
Rating: EF1
Path length: 0.75 mi
Path width: 250 yd
Property damage: $100,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 37.180, -85.669

The tornado touched down in an open field and moved northeast toward a corner on Mahogany Lane. Two small vortices, one 50 yards wide and the other 100 yards wide, reached speeds up to 105 mph as they destroyed a large, well-built barn and two smaller outbuildings in addition to a fifth wheel trailer. The debris from each of these structures was blown to the northeast up to mile, and exhibited both convergence and rotation.

Thunderstorm Wind, Cumberland

When: April 5, 4:18 PM CST
Where: Cumberland County, Marrowbone
Measured: 74 kt (85 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $15,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 36.820, -85.500

The Cumberland County emergency manager reported a building wall collapsed due to severe thunderstorm winds.

Thunderstorm Wind, Allen

When: April 5, 4:20 PM CST
Where: Allen County, 0.55 mi E of Holland
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $10,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 36.700, -86.060

Severe thunderstorm winds tore portions of a roof off a barn and tossed it onto nearby road.

Hail, Green

When: April 5, 4:25 PM CST
Where: Green County, 0.69 mi S of Greensburg
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.260, -85.500

Thunderstorm Wind, Green

When: April 5, 4:25 PM CST
Where: Green County, 0.69 mi S of Greensburg
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 37.260, -85.500

The Green County emergency manager reported trees down in the area.

Thunderstorm Wind, Franklin

When: April 5, 5:34 PM EST
Where: Franklin County, 0.88 mi SE of Farmdale
Measured: 63 kt (72 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 38.110, -84.910

Thunderstorm Wind, Marion

When: April 5, 5:40 PM EST
Where: Marion County, 0.55 mi W of Lebanon
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: State Official
Coordinates: 37.570, -85.260

Kentucky state officials reported trees down on Daugherty Avenue and Miller Pike.

Hail, Taylor

When: April 5, 5:43 PM EST
Where: Taylor County, Campbellsville
Measured: 1.25 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 37.330, -85.350

Thunderstorm Wind, Franklin

When: April 5, 5:45 PM EST
Where: Franklin County, 0.88 mi SW of Kennebec
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: State Official
Coordinates: 38.190, -84.930

Trees were reported down on Pearidge Rd in Frankfort.

Thunderstorm Wind, Taylor

When: April 5, 5:47 PM EST
Where: Taylor County, 1.38 mi S of Mannsville
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.350, -85.200

Tree uprooted reported via Facebook.

Thunderstorm Wind, Scott

When: April 5, 5:54 PM EST
Where: Scott County, 2.34 mi NNE of Paynes Depot
Measured: 54 kt (62 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 38.180, -84.600

A 54 knot measured wind gust at a private weather station.

Thunderstorm Wind, Scott

When: April 5, 5:55 PM EST
Where: Scott County, 2.14 mi NE of Georgetown
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: State Official
Coordinates: 38.220, -84.520

State officials reported small tree limbs down.

Thunderstorm Wind, Scott

When: April 5, 5:55 PM EST
Where: Scott County, 1.63 mi E of Stamping Ground
Measured: 56 kt (64 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $50,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 38.270, -84.650

A NWS Storm Survey team found damage to barns and outbuildings, and large limbs down, along Duvall Station Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Scott

When: April 5, 6:00 PM EST
Where: Scott County, 0.54 mi W of New Zion
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 38.180, -84.490

The Scott County emergency manager reported trees down in the area.

Hail, Boyle

When: April 5, 6:03 PM EST
Where: Boyle County, 2.14 mi NNE of Craintown
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 37.650, -85.010

Thunderstorm Wind, Scott

When: April 5, 6:04 PM EST
Where: Scott County, 1.63 mi E of Oxford
Measured: 61 kt (70 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $30,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 38.270, -84.470

A NWS Storm Survey team found a large barn heavily damaged along Highway 62.

Thunderstorm Wind, Scott

When: April 5, 6:04 PM EST
Where: Scott County, 1.63 mi E of Oxford
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $25,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 38.270, -84.470

A NWS Storm Survey team found barn and tree damage due to severe thunderstorm winds. The metal sheeting was blown away 400 yards. Winds were estimated to be around 70 mph.

Hail, Scott

When: April 5, 6:05 PM EST
Where: Scott County, 0.69 mi N of Georgetown
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 38.210, -84.550

Thunderstorm Wind, Scott

When: April 5, 6:05 PM EST
Where: Scott County, 1.77 mi ENE of Great Crossing
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $50,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 38.230, -84.570

The Scott County emergency manager reported roof damage to Scott County High School.

Thunderstorm Wind, Harrison

When: April 5, 6:14 PM EST
Where: Harrison County, 2.71 mi W of Cynthiana
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $50,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 38.380, -84.350

A NWS Storm Survey team found straight line wind damage to an old barn. Metal sheeting was blown 400 yards. There was also minor damage to Rohs Opera House in Cynthiana.

Thunderstorm Wind, Harrison

When: April 5, 6:15 PM EST
Where: Harrison County, 1.77 mi WNW of Cynthiana
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $25,000
Reported by: State Official
Coordinates: 38.390, -84.330

Officials reported that severe thunderstorm winds blew a roof off a house on Spruce Drive and Kentucky State Highway 365.

Thunderstorm Wind, Boyle

When: April 5, 6:20 PM EST
Where: Boyle County, 1.09 mi E of Wells Lndg
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $30,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 37.670, -84.730

The Boyle County emergency manager reported trees and power lines down at Highway 34 and Taylor Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Jessamine

When: April 5, 6:29 PM EST
Where: Jessamine County, Nicholasville
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.870, -84.570

The public reported a measured 50 knot wind gust.

Thunderstorm Wind, Jessamine

When: April 5, 6:35 PM EST
Where: Jessamine County, 3.05 mi ESE of Brannon
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $50,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 37.930, -84.500

The Jessamine County emergency manager reported trees down on power lines. Several hundred homes were without power.

Thunderstorm Wind, Garrard

When: April 5, 6:35 PM EST
Where: Garrard County, 0.88 mi SW of Bryantsville
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $15,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.710, -84.660

The public reported shingles were torn off the roof of a house due to severe thunderstorm winds.

Thunderstorm Wind, Fayette

When: April 5, 6:50 PM EST
Where: Fayette County, 1.77 mi ESE of Jonestown
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $5,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.970, -84.470

The public reported shingles were blown off a home.

Hail, Madison

When: April 5, 7:04 PM EST
Where: Madison County, 1.09 mi E of Stringtown
Measured: 2 in hail
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 37.820, -84.400

Hail, Fayette

When: April 5, 7:05 PM EST
Where: Fayette County, 1.38 mi N of Clays Ferry
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.900, -84.350

The hail resulted in a few home windows broken and shingles damaged.

Hail, Fayette

When: April 5, 7:05 PM EST
Where: Fayette County, 1.29 mi WSW of Centerville
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.960, -84.390

Hail, Madison

When: April 5, 7:05 PM EST
Where: Madison County, 4.15 mi N of White Hall
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.880, -84.330

Hail, Fayette

When: April 5, 7:07 PM EST
Where: Fayette County, 1.29 mi WSW of Centerville
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.960, -84.390

Hail, Madison

When: April 5, 7:07 PM EST
Where: Madison County, 2.14 mi NNE of White Hall
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 37.850, -84.320

Thunderstorm Wind, Clark

When: April 5, 7:17 PM EST
Where: Clark County, 1.49 mi NNW of Winchester
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $50,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 38.000, -84.190

The Clark County emergency manager reported power lines down in the area along with a tree on a house.

Hail, Clark

When: April 5, 7:20 PM EST
Where: Clark County, 1.49 mi NNW of Winchester
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 38.000, -84.190

Hail, Clark

When: April 5, 7:22 PM EST
Where: Clark County, 1.76 mi NE of Forest Grove
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.970, -84.210

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: April 5, 7:22 PM EST
Where: Madison County, 0.88 mi SW of Union City
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $30,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 37.790, -84.210

The Madison County emergency manager reported trees down at several locations on Union City Road, including one older tree on the roof of a shed. There was also minor siding and roof damage on Diamond Brook Drive.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: April 5, 7:22 PM EST
Where: Madison County, 0.88 mi SW of Union City
Measured: 70 kt (81 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $10,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 37.790, -84.210

A NWS Storm Survey team found many shingles off a roof and a garage door caved in on Diamond Brook Drive.

Hail, Clark

When: April 5, 7:38 PM EST
Where: Clark County, 1.49 mi NNW of Winchester
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 38.000, -84.190

Hail, Adair

When: April 5, 6:45 PM CST
Where: Adair County, 2.15 mi NW of Columbia
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 37.120, -85.330

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: April 5, 8:07 PM EST
Where: Madison County, 1.3 mi ESE of Asbury
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.560, -84.280

A 52 knot wind gust measured at a private weather station east of Berea.

What these are

Hail: Hail three-quarters of an inch or larger, or smaller hail that caused damage, filed with the largest stone measured.
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.
Tornado: A violently rotating column of air in contact with the ground and extending from a thunderstorm, filed with its path, width and Fujita or Enhanced Fujita rating from the damage survey.

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

The same day elsewhere

Every storm in Kentucky in 2017 Every state in 2017 This day in weather history The tornado archive for Kentucky, 2017 Warnings in Kentucky, April 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: 681368, 681369, 681370, 681371, 681372, 681373, 681374, 681375, 681376, 681377, 681378, 681412, 681441, 681379, 681413, 681414, 681415, 681380, 681381, 681382, 681383, 681384, 681416, 681417, 681419, 681420, 681421, 681422, 681425, 681385, 681423, 681386, 681387, 681388, 681431, 681674, 681389, 681443, 681390, 681430, and more.