Sunday was a rough day for many in this area. Tornados, strong winds, hail and massive flooding hammered this area.
I lost count of how many times the tornado sirens went off in Pea Ridge. Luckily, none came to fruition for us. And the flooding and hail damage we had was minimal and insignificant compared to what was suffered by those around us.
Joplin is only about 45 miles north of where I live. Both the Husbear and I have clients and acquaintances who live there. It's the next big city north of where we live. The devastation there is unimaginable, even for a tornado.
Just watch this fly-over:
Sadly, Joplin wasn't the only destruction that occurred near us. 30 miles to our west in South West City, MO, a friend lost his home and farm to an as-of-yet unlisted tornado a few hours later.
Facebook has been extremely active with all the people I'm friends with who live in the area: Friends seeking information on missing family members and friends; and friends announcing the death of loved ones. It's hard to witness.
While I live in "Tornado Alley", I can't begin to imagine what I would do if that devastation happened where we live.
And yet, we're preparing for another round of severe storms tonight. To the point ALL of our clients at the tattoo studio and the Husbear's hair salon have rescheduled their afternoon and evening appointments, and most of the businesses in the area are actually sending their employees home early today. I don't know if it's due to a heightened sensitivity to what happened around us on Sunday, or if because this one is just going to be really bad. I guess we'll find out in a few hours.
Until next time...
DeadRobot commented on May 24, 2011 at 5:26 pm:
Be well and stay in the basement... or under a desk or something!
John commented on May 24, 2011 at 6:07 pm:
You'll be in my thoughts. Be safe and keep us posted
Gypsybiscuit commented on May 24, 2011 at 8:11 pm:
Keeping my fingers crossed that tomorrow morning doesn't find me crawling out of the closet.
Sean commented on May 24, 2011 at 8:45 pm:
Stay safe and check in so that we know you are, please.
Cb commented on May 24, 2011 at 9:14 pm:
Hunker down again- and get all the pets indoors
Dale commented on May 24, 2011 at 9:21 pm:
I hope things passed over safely, and that you continue to be safe and sound. Wishing you much luck and love.
the replicant commented on May 25, 2011 at 12:09 am:
That is some serious damage. Those poor people.
Nik commented on May 25, 2011 at 3:29 am:
I hope it all goes well. Stay safe!
Cubby commented on May 25, 2011 at 7:28 am:
You know, it's one thing to read about this disaster on the internet, but quite another to see a lengthy vid. This level of destruction is just beyond imagination. I'm glad you're safe. Take care.