Joplin tornado (2011)

The Joplin tornado of 2011 was a devastating EF5 tornado that struck Joplin, Missouri, on May 22. It was part of a larger severe weather outbreak, and its powerful winds exceeded 200 mph, causing widespread destruction across a 22-mile path. The tornado destroyed thousands of homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure, resulting in 158 deaths and over 1,000 injuries. It was one of the deadliest tornadoes in U.S. history, highlighting the importance of weather awareness and emergency preparedness in tornado-prone areas. The event prompted significant changes in building codes and emergency response strategies.