A female emu named Adam was killed when softball-sized hailstones rained down during a devastating hailstorm in Springfield, Missouri, on Tuesday. The 21-year-old bird, a resident of Dickerson Park Zoo, died after the storm struck around 11 a.m., zoo spokeswoman Joey Powell confirmed to the Daily Mail.
Storm Impact on Zoo Animals
Adam was the only animal fatality, but a male rhea—a smaller, flightless bird similar to an ostrich—was also injured. Powell reported that the zoo sustained severe damage to vehicles and roofs, and any glass structures were completely destroyed. Fortunately, the remaining animals were unharmed, though the zoo remained closed on Wednesday.
Hail Size and Damage
Multiple reports estimated the hail to be between 3 and 5 inches in diameter, with a meteorologist in Springfield measuring 4-inch hail, according to USA Today. For comparison, a standard softball has an approximate circumference of 3.82 inches. Meteorologist Brandon Beck described the storm as "the worst in modern records for both Springfield, MO, and Greene County, MO," noting the largest measured hailstone at 5 inches and predicting it would be the costliest hailstorm on record.
The National Weather Service classifies "Giant Hail"—larger than 2.75 inches in diameter—as an extreme threat to life and property. Social media posts showed cars in Greene County with shattered windshields and massive roof dents, while gas readers were also damaged. Officials warned the public to leave immediately if they smelled gas.
Power Outages and Community Response
More than 10,000 City Utilities customers lost power after the storm, though about 6,000 had it restored within two hours. The zoo's announcement of Adam's death prompted an outpouring of condolences on social media. One person wrote: "So sorry to hear about the loss of the beloved emu. Thankful for every worker and volunteer who worked hard to save the animals." Another added: "I am so sorry for the loss of precious Adam and for the damage at the zoo. The weather is getting scarier every day." Powell confirmed that the injured rhea remains under veterinary care.
