May storm causes problems! Sylvia Ulmer Anderson of Springfield, Missouri

Mrs. Sylvia Anderson of rural Springfield, Missouri writes of problems with strong wind- storms with tornadoes. "I finally, with help have picked up all the debris from my yard," says Sylvia. She tells of finding siding, carpeting, personal mail, and cancelled checks from as far away as 68 miles. Neighbors down the road a ways tell of finding dead cows in their pastures. Of most concern were the bank statements from Pierce City a distance of over 65 miles. Word was received of a refrigerator being found 17 miles away from the family home. The nearest severe damage to the Anderson residence was about 10 miles away. "Where does one start?" Sylvia ponders. Records, family histories, and pictures, and on and on are lying on the lawn. I am so thankful that the tornadoes that flew over Springfield last night missed me but the weather seems to continue to be nasty. Plenty of rain comes with these storms and is welcome. "I hid in the closet, she laughs, but a neighbor woman hid in her bathtub, not worrying about protecting her head!" Teasing, Sylvia states that she thought the mirror was cracked but "I am sure it is just the wrinkles in my face after a few nights of storms." Reading through the special edition of the Springfield News-Leader paper finds the headline, "Bush declares 39 state counties disaster areas." Pictures that look tragically like a war zone impress the reader of the power and destruction of the storms. Many personal stories of eye- witness accounts of the twisting winds and damage make the paper a document of historical value. This seems to be the season for storms in the Midwest. So when the weather report warns of an approaching front one should take heed and conduct themselves accordingly. Sylvia concludes her letter with "a prayer that all stay well and safe!"

last updated July 20, 2003