Joplin Tornado
The Joplin Tornado occurred on May 22, 2011, in Joplin, Missouri. It was classified as an EF5 tornado, the most severe rating on the Enhanced Fujita scale, with winds exceeding 200 miles per hour. The tornado traveled approximately 6 miles and caused extensive damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure.
This devastating event resulted in 158 fatalities and over 1,000 injuries, making it one of the deadliest tornadoes in U.S. history. The National Weather Service issued warnings, but the tornado struck with little time for residents to seek shelter. Recovery efforts involved local, state, and federal resources to rebuild the community.