The Craziest Storms
to Ever Hit Middle Tennessee
Middle Tennessee is no stranger to extreme weather. From violent tornado outbreaks to catastrophic flooding and paralyzing ice storms, the region has seen its fair share of nature’s fury. For homeowners and business owners in areas like Franklin, Nashville, and Murfreesboro, these events aren’t just news headlines—they’re harsh realities that often leave behind serious storm damage.
In this blog, we’ll break down some of the craziest storms ever to hit Middle TN and explain what kind of storm damage they caused, especially when it comes to roofs and exterior structures.
Super Tuesday Tornado Outbreak
February 5–6, 2008
One of the most destructive tornado events in Tennessee history. Middle TN was rocked by EF2 to EF4 tornadoes, killing 22 people across the state. The damage to homes, schools, and commercial buildings was catastrophic.
Notable storm damage:
- Roofs ripped off entirely
- Uprooted trees crashed into homes
- Flying debris punctured shingles and siding
- Insurance claims surged in counties like Sumner, Wilson, and Davidson
“During the catastrophic incident, a series of 87 severe tornado outbreaks occurred. The 87 tornados occurred in a span of only 15 hours.”
2020 Nashville & Cookeville Tornado
March 3, 2020
An EF3 tornado tore through downtown Nashville, with another EF4 touching down in Putnam County. This storm hit in the middle of the night, causing 25 deaths and displacing thousands.
Notable storm damage:
- Complete roof collapses in East Nashville and Germantown
- Commercial roofs sheared off warehouse buildings
- Structural failures in historic homes
- Thousands of roofs required emergency tarping and repairs
The "1000-Year Flood"
May 2010
Arguably the worst flood in Tennessee history, this two-day rain event dropped over 13 inches of rain in parts of Middle TN. The Cumberland River rose over 51 feet, flooding downtown Nashville and surrounding counties.
Notable storm damage:
- Roof decking and attic insulation soaked from rising floodwaters
- Mold infestation from prolonged roof leaks
- Foundations and crawlspaces compromised
- Emergency roof replacements due to long-term water exposure
Waverly Flash Floods
August 21, 2021
A sudden downpour dropped over 17 inches of rain in less than 24 hours. The floodwaters devastated Waverly, taking 20 lives and damaging hundreds of homes.
Notable storm damage:
- Waterlogged roof structures and collapse risks
- Power outages led to failed sump pumps, worsening moisture issues
- Emergency roof inspections became essential for homes with older or already-damaged shingles
Brutal Ice Storm
February 2021
Subfreezing temps and layers of ice left much of Middle TN paralyzed for days. While not as deadly as tornadoes or floods, the storm caused widespread infrastructure failure.
Notable storm damage:
- Ice dams formed on roofs, causing leaks inside attics and ceilings
- Gutter systems tore away under the weight of ice
- Roof shingles cracked from freeze-thaw cycles
- Skylights and vents damaged by ice accumulation
What Major Storms Mean for Your Roof
Storm damage in Middle TN isn’t just possible—it’s inevitable. Whether it’s a ripped-off roof from tornado-force winds, saturation from floodwaters, or ice-related leaks, extreme weather has a direct and long-term effect on roofing systems.
Warning Signs of Storm Damage to Look For:
- Missing or lifted shingles
- Ceiling stains or attic moisture
- Dents in vents or gutters from hail
- Granule loss or clogged gutters after heavy rain
- Warped or bowed decking
Conclusion
If you live in Middle Tennessee, storm damage is something you can’t afford to ignore. Whether it’s from a record-breaking tornado or a slow-moving flood, your roof is often your first and last line of defense. Don’t wait for the next weather disaster to find out your roof isn’t ready.
Need help now? Professional Roofers, Inc. offers free roof inspections and fast, reliable storm damage repair in Franklin, TN and surrounding areas.
Contact us today to schedule your storm damage inspection.
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