Anything else I could write about today is overshadowed by yesterday’s horrible tragedy in Joplin, Missouri. A large, violent tornado carved a path through the heart of the city, throwing semis off of I-44, utterly destroying the hospital, and completely leveling the business section and surrounding neighborhoods.
The present death toll stands at 89. I am sure that the number of fatalities will continue to grow as rescue workers sift through the wreckage. Honor and appreciation to the numerous storm chasers who ended their chases yesterday and assisted in rescue operations and emergency medical care.
What a horrible event. Last month’s devastating outbreak across the southeast was more than enough, and now this–another large town hit by a violent wedge. It is just beyond belief, and sickening, and heartbreaking. The year 2011 will go down in weather history as the year of urban tornado disasters. My heart goes out to the people of Joplin, Missouri.
