More Storms Roar Through the Lakes Region Friday, Elevated Fire Conditions This Weekend

For the second time in a week, spring-like storms make a December appearance in the Lakes Region.

A Tornado Warning was issued by the National Weather Service Friday evening as one storm made its way through parts of Stone and Taney Counties. Reports were received by the Weather Service and Ozarks First of a Tornado siting near Reeds Spring.

Stone County Emergency Management Director Tom Martin reported to the NWS that four homes were damaged by the storms northwest of Branson West. In a follow-up conversation with Ozarks First, Martin said 15 people had been displaced due to the storm and were being assisted by the Red Cross. Power outages were also reported in that area and also along the path of the storm in northern Taney County around the Merriam Woods and Walnut Shade areas.  

Storms that moved through the rest of the Lakes Region were less intense, but did result in 50 MPH wind gusts in Southern Stone and Taney Counties including the Branson/Hollister area as well as Boone and Carroll Counties in Northern Arkansas. 

Breezy conditions with temperatures in the 40's expected today across the region. The breezy conditions along with low humidity over the week have officials in both Missouri and Arkansas warning of a high fire risk and advising against outdoor burning.