Communities across the Midwest are left in shambles after a devastating tornado outbreak swept through the area late Monday night into early Tuesday last week. Hundreds of tornadoes touched down across states including Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri, leaving extreme damage, disorienting families and taking countless lives.
Among the destruction, neighbors and emergency responders were both moved to action the moment they saw the events. First responders worked through the night to free trapped residents while the community gathered food and supplies to those who were displaced.
One of the hardest hit states was Kentucky with a confirmed EF4 tornado blowing through a 55 mile wide area. Local officials and first responders have confirmed at least 19 deaths and numerous other injuries but have asked for community strength in times like this. “The loss is terrible but, but the compassion from everyone, volunteers to emergency responders, has been incredible.” Local Kentucky police officer reporting on the aftermath of the tornado
The speed of action in times of emergency saves countless lives. Tornado sirens and emergency broadcasts allow for people to get to storm shelters and find shelter. Schools and churches are converted into emergency shelters in a matter of minutes.
These tornadoes didn’t only affect the people of the areas being damaged but new residents and visitors. Tourist attractions were destroyed, roads were demolished and travel to these areas were delayed.
While the storms were directly in the midwest, they have even affected people here in North Carolina. Katie Humell, a student at Green Level, was visiting Kentucky when she learned about the storms from her airport.
“My flight [To Kentucky] was supposed to be only an hour but they rerouted us completely around the storms and it became a three hour flight after it was already delayed.”
Weeks if not months of reconstruction are on the horizon for all the towns affected. Midwestern hospitality on the other hand is keeping the region strong. From hot meals to clothing donations, everyone in the midwest is rallying around this disaster.
It is asked by local officials that all citizens stay alert as hazardous weather may continue or reappear within the next week or two.
As cleanup begins, one thing stays true, the ability of a community to rally together in trying times is clear and present in the midwest. Through the determination and resilience of the community, the midwest is well on its way to recovery.
From everyone here at Green Level and beyond, our hearts go out to those affected directly or indirectly. Stay safe, stay strong.
