Joplin’s Dark Secret: 14 Years On

The recently released documentary titled “The Twister: Caught in the Storm” on Netflix delves into a disastrous incident that has become an enduring emblem of hope.

The documentary film uses exclusive footage shot by residents of Joplin themselves and interviews with a local youth group, providing a firsthand account and immersing viewers in the heart of the chaos – taking us directly into the midst of the storm.

As we approach the 14th anniversary of the tragic tornado that struck Joplin, can you share what actually occurred there on that fateful day?

Continue reading to discover additional details about the tornado featured in the latest Netflix documentary titled “Twister: Ensnared by the Tempest.

What happened in Joplin?

The Joplin tornado is also known as one of the deadliest twisters in American history.

Back in May 2011, an exceptional EF5 tornado, about a mile wide, swept through Joplin, Missouri. Before this catastrophic event, there were several tornadoes reported across the Midwest and South of the United States throughout that month.

Approximately 8,000 structures were significantly harmed by the tornado, with more than 4,000 being completely demolished. Among these were one of Joplin’s two hospitals, a large portion of its infrastructure such as houses and educational institutions, including homes and schools.

The city was not the only one affected by this level of destruction; a tornado resulted in the tragic loss of 158 lives and left more than 1,000 people injured.

What is Joplin like now?

After several years, Joplin struggled to regain its former state, leading to a declaration of emergency in the region as efforts were made to restore and reconstruct it.

After the storm had passed, more than 100,000 individuals stepped forward to volunteer. On an average weekly basis, about five homes were reconstructed, according to People’s report.

2014 marked the resumption of operations at the city’s high school, and it was in 2015 that the St. John’s Regional Medical Center officially began serving the community.

As of 2019, Joplin’s population is larger than it was before the tornado struck.

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2025-03-19 20:05