Residents of Texarkana Encounter Fish Falling Around Their Homes After Major Storm
On the afternoon of December 29, 2021, two storms hit Texarkana, located on the border between Texas and Arkansas, bringing heavy rain to the area. Residents reported hearing sounds resembling hail striking their rooftops. However, once the storm passed, they quickly discovered that it was not ordinary rain but rather fish scattered all over the ground.
Fish falling in Texarkana. (Photo: KSLA).
Tom Brigham, manager of Discount Wheel & Tire, reported seeing fish falling from the sky during the storm. Approximately 25 to 30 fish, some measuring 15 to 17 cm in length, were found scattered outside the store and in the neighboring area. The smell of fish filled the air, reminiscent of a fish market. Brigham had to ask his staff to collect the fish to prevent anyone from slipping on them. The broken heads of the fish indicated that they had fallen from a significant height.
A similar scene was observed in front of a car dealership and at Tiger Stadium, where players were practicing. Fish also fell at three locations along Summerhill Road in Texas. Residents in a neighborhood in Arkansas also reported experiencing the fish rain. Homeowners were quite confused, with some believing it was a prank.
According to the Texarkana city authorities, animal rain is a phenomenon that occurs when small aquatic animals, such as frogs, crabs, and small fish, are swept up by a waterspout or a column of water and then fall to the ground along with raindrops. Although “animal rain” is quite rare, it does occur on occasion. Meteorologist Gary Chatelian from the National Weather Service stated that fish can be lifted into the air by strong winds and fall like any other debris. They could originate from Lake Texoma or anywhere else.
