VI. Historical Context: Learning from Past Severe Weather Events
A. Major Tornado Outbreaks and Their Aftermath
The southern and central Plains have a long history of severe weather, including some of the most devastating tornado outbreaks in American history. Historical events such as the 2011 Super Outbreak, which resulted in widespread destruction across multiple states, provide valuable lessons for today’s communities. In past outbreaks, the combination of strong winds, large hail, and torrential rains led to significant damage and loss of life. Emergency response and recovery efforts highlighted the importance of timely warnings, robust infrastructure, and community resilience.