tornado

The scene around much of the Joplin, Missouri area is one of destruction and devastation. Mother nature has been unkind to a number of areas throughout the Midwest but on Sunday, May 22nd she was ruthless.

A severe storm came through the area and dropped a large tornado that tore a 6-mile path across southwestern Missouri, to date killing 116 people and injuring 400. This twister was the single deadliest tornado to strike the U.S. since a June 1953 tornado in Flint, Mich., that storm also killed 116, according to the National Weather Service.

The weather forecast for today does not look promising. More storms, high winds, hail and possibly even more tornados are predicted for the area.

A state of emergency has been declared and the National Guard has been activated to assist with the clean up efforts.

How You Can Help Joplin

If you would like to help the victims of the Joplin tornado there are a number of different ways to do it.

Donations

The Joplin Red Cross could use donations. You can contact them at (417) 624-4411 in order to find out what is necessary.

The Missouri State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA)

A list of major non-profits that operate regularly in Missouri can be found on the National Donations Management Network website. You can also call (800) 427-4626 for further information.

The Missouri Interfaith Disaster Response Organization is taking donations for longterm recovery efforts.

The Community Blood Center of the Ozarks is in need of blood — particularly type O. You can donate at your local blood center.

Volunteering

211 Missouri is helping organize volunteers in the affected areas. More information can be found by calling (800) 427-462.

Nurses or doctors looking to help can call (417) 832-9500 for the Greater Ozarks chapter of the Red Cross.