What was that big boom Monday in Huntsville? [UPDATE]

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Redstone Arsenal
big boom in Huntsville
Just another Monday in Huntsville.

You know you live in Huntsville when….💥

On Monday evening, January 5, many Huntsville locals were surprised by a big boom. We’re no stranger to mysterious noises coming from the Arsenal, but Monday’s occurrence was reportedly much more forceful than normal.

Redstone Arsenal shared via X on Monday that residents could expect noises from rocket engine hot fire testing.

As of Tuesday, January 7, Redstone reported via Facebook:

“On the evening of Monday, January 5, 2026, routine operations on a range on Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, resulted in louder than expected noise levels. It was not a result of rocket engine testing.

Redstone Arsenal Team via Facebook

Redstone also warned Huntsville that additional operations will be conducted today, Wednesday, January 7, between 1-6PM, that may result in elevated noise levels “during a single detonation event.”

Surprised by the sound? You’re not alone

Several locals—newcomers and longtime residents alike—were startled by the noise. See what some are saying:

“It felt like a car crashed into my apartment”

Neer

“Lived here my whole life and still had to confirm that someone hadn’t just crashed into my house😂😂”

Nico

“There was a boom? (I’ve been here my whole life The Booms are just background noise to me)”

Will

“I think people that have lived here for a while were startled a little last night. I’ve lived here for 15 years and that was the loudest I’ve heard.”

Justin

“Was watching Stranger Things. 10/10 special effects.”

Emily

“Ha ha. 35 years ago i moved here . The first time I heard this I about had a heart attack. Now I dont even notice it.”

Deb

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Elizabeth Hobbs
Elizabeth Hobbs
Articles: 107